Bill Williamson, age 87, died Sunday morning, December 16, 2012, at his Cosby home.

A United States Army veteran, he was stationed in the Philippines and New Guinea during World War II. He visited the World War II Memorial in Washington, D. C. as part of the Honor Guard program.

Mr. Williamson was also a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of 234 F&AM, the Scottish Rite, and the Kerbela Temple.

In addition to his military service, Mr. Williamson served his local community by representing the Fifth District as a Cocke County Commissioner from 1990 until his death. He served two terms as chairman of the Commission and was currently serving and chairman of the Finance Committee. He was known as a responsible steward of the county's funds.

He also served on the Cocke County Board of Education from 1964 until 1970. He was recognized as a Friend to Education. He was honored by having Smoky Mountain Elementary School Gym and Addition named for him. He was a strong supporter of the Cosby High School sports program.

After retiring from American Enka, he worked part-time at Stinnett Motors.

Mr. Williamson was a member of Laurel Springs Christian Church and later attended Cosby Missionary Baptist Church.

At the 75th Anniversary celebration of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, he was recognized as having been born in an area of Cocke County which would later become a part of the Park.

He was the youngest of twelve children born to the late John and Elvira Williams. Also preceding him in death was his wife of 61 years, Ruby McMahan Williamson.

He is survived by two daughters Myra Lewis and husband Mike and Kathy McCarter and one son, Randall Smithpeters; five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He has one surviving sister Zelma Jenkins. Also surviving are special friends Jimmy and Dorothy Williamson, and several nieces, nephews, and many other family and friends.

The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:45 p.m. Tuesday, December 18, 2012, in Manes Funeral Home Chapel. Masonic services will be held at 6:45 p.m. with funeral services at 7:00 p.m. with Rev. Cleo Williamson and Dr. Charlie Boggan officiating. Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2012, in Union Cemetery.

Family and friends may sign the guest register online at www.manesfuneralhome.com.

Manes Funeral Home in charge