Pack III, William French

William French Pack, III of Riner, VA passed away peacefully on Monday, January 26, 2026, surrounded by family. Bill was born on November 19, 1941. He grew up in Blacksburg, VA and was a member of BHS class of 1960.

In 1960, Bill joined the US Navy where he earned the rank of machinist’s mate 2nd class and navy diver 2nd class. Bill could explain the intricacies of a steam engine as if he was still keeping one running. He had countless stories about being on the USS Hunley in Dunoon, Scotland, as well as the USS Farragut in Cuba, where he tended to submarines in the Atlantic.

After receiving an honorable discharge in 1968, Bill returned to Montgomery County. He devoted many years to developing real estate, worked at Hercules, was one of the first 5 employees hired at Federal-Mogul. He eventually settled in Riner where he raised a family and lived for the remainder of his life.

Bill was mischievous, he loved a practical joke, and he knew everyone. He had a kind heart which made it hard to say no to him. Quick to smile, he loved company. The friendships he made in the navy were tight and life long. When Bill entered a room, he brought it to life. Always in good humor, he could make everyone laugh.

In addition to reminiscing about the Navy, Bill had many passions. Some of them were welding, creating “Imaginative Art”, the Washington Redskins, WWII history, Motown, The Rolling Stones, and two sets of labradors.

Bill is survived by his son, Cameron French Pack (Jen), Sarah Bishop, his partner of 33 years, her daughter Tracy, whom he loved as his own, his sister, Joann Sutphin (JB) and brother, Bob, former wife Bonnie Ballengee Pack, 6 grandchildren; Kristen, Catie (Cameron and Jen), Caleb, Claire, Baron and Kylie (Chad and Allison), nephews and cousins.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William French Pack, Jr. and Devota “Dit” Parrish Pack, his daughter, Kristen Elaine Pack and son, Charles “Chad” Parrish Pack.

His ashes will be interred at Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, VA with a private ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held at Windy Hills Farm in Riner, later in the spring. In lieu of flowers, Bill supported the Montgomery County Animal Shelter, Wounded Warriors and The National Association of the Tin Can Sailors.