William "Bill" Henry Sills, III

William “Bill” Henry Sills III, passed away in his home in Irmo, SC on Monday, October 21, 2024, at age 76, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was the son of the late Earle and Cecilia Sills. He was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne Sills. 

Bill was a native of Batesburg and later graduated from McClenaghan High School in Florence, Class of 1966. Bill attended the United States Naval Academy and graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology.  He spent his career with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough as Director of Facilities and Contract Services, retiring in 2018. During his years there, he was known for his tireless dedication and expertise. He was the one that everyone came to when they needed something to happen. Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in the construction of many marquee buildings and landmark projects in Columbia and Atlanta.  His legacy can be seen in the structures he helped build and the countless people he mentored. He took pride in his work and could often be heard saying, “That’s my building!”

Bill had a large personality, many friends, never met a stranger, and always had a story to share. He thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors including dove hunting, duck hunting, offshore fishing, scuba diving and playing golf with friends.  He lived a life of adventure and loved traveling and vacationing with his family. After hours, you would find Bill adorned in one of his many Hawaiian shirts, having a martini and a cigar in his backyard. He was a renowned wine, bourbon, and cigar enthusiast.

Bill was a member of Salem United Methodist Church for 10 years where he taught Sunday School, served on numerous committees, one of which was the worship committee where he formed the first all female usher team that he lovingly called Bill’s angels. Bill was also a proud member of several civic and fraternal organizations, including the Boyleston Masonic Lodge No. 123, Jamil Shrine Temple, and his treasured “Lunch Bunch Boys”. 

Bill is survived by Sandra Baker Sills, his beloved wife of 27 years; his stepchildren that he loved as his own, Amy Berube and Bryan Wingard (Stephanie); grandchildren, Carter Berube, Cody Wingard, Haley Berube and Kailyn Wingard; nieces, Meghann Elrhoul and Gillian Akins. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Shriners Hospitals for Children in his honor. 

The family will have a private celebration of life. 

The South Carolina Cremation Society is assisting the family. Please share memories and messages on the online guest book by clicking on the “Leave A Tribute” tab above.