William L. Fagan, Sr., affectionately known as "Sonny," peacefully departed this life on Saturday, August 1, 2026.

William was born on February 17, 1945, in Williamston, North Carolina, to the late Raymond and Blanche Fagan, who preceded him in death. He was the eldest of three children and the only son.

At an early age, William migrated to New York, where he attended P.S. 57. He later joined St. Paul Church of Christ D.O.C. under the leadership of the late Bishop Johnson.

William was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. Throughout his life, he held many jobs, but his true passion was construction. He worked primarily with the Burns Company until his retirement. Never one to shy away from hard work, William later established his own construction and renovation business. Alongside his longtime friend and business partner, James “Robbie” Robinson, he completed numerous remodeling and renovation projects, including homes and other properties, before relocating to Greensboro, North Carolina.

William was a very outgoing person who was well known throughout his neighborhood and community. He never met a stranger. His warm spirit, generous heart, and friendly nature made him a beloved presence wherever he went. He enjoyed cooking for family and friends, often bringing people together around a good meal. Another passion of his was gardening. He took great pride in growing vegetables and generously shared his harvest with anyone who wanted them.

William leaves to cherish his memory his loving and devoted wife of 46 years, Gloria V. Fagan; his sons, William L. Fagan, Jr. (Dorene) of Long Island, New York, Derek Fagan of Burlington, Vermont, and Kerry Valrie (Althea) of Loxley, Alabama; his sisters, Martha Anderson-Fagan of Pocomoke, Maryland, and Sandra Fagan of Greensboro, North Carolina; his uncle, Edward Lyons of Williamston, North Carolina; his sisters-in-law, Floria Standifer and Delciena Valrie of Atlanta, Georgia, and Felicia Adams (Rev. Dr. Len Adams) of Fairburn, Georgia; his brothers-in-law, Charles Valrie of Garner, North Carolina, and Van A. Valrie (Sharon) of Loxley, Alabama; his beloved goddaughter, Valeria Meade of Elizabeth City, North Carolina; his special friend, Lavina Lewis of Greensboro, North Carolina; his special cousin, Heyward Brown of Williamston, North Carolina; 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; and a host of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

William's life was a testament to hard work, generosity, kindness, and unwavering love for family. Whether through the homes he helped build, the meals he shared, the vegetables he grew, or the friendships he nurtured, he left an enduring impact on everyone blessed to know him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, and his legacy will continue through the generations that follow.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord."

Matthew 25:23 (KJV)