Rev. William “Bill” Painter of Columbus, N.C., son of the late Richard and Montz Hutcherson Painter went home to his reward on Thursday, May 11, 2017.

Reverend Painter was the founding Pastor of Faith Temple Baptist Church where he served for 32 years. He also retired from the Polk County School System after many years of dedicated service.

He leaves behind his loving, devoted wife of 61 years Jean Painter. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five children, Sharon Thompson (David) of Gaffney, S.C., Willian Daniel Painter (Angela) of Green Creek, N.C., John Painter (Dixie) of Tryon, N.C., Melanie Smith (Chris) of Green Creek, N.C., Marilyn Ingle (Randy) of Green Creek, N.C.; fourteen grandchildren, Jeanna Pressley (Nathan), William Thompson (Amanda), Stephanie Painter (Fiancé, Brian New), Erica Leeds (Benjamin), Daniel Painter, Bethany-Jean Painter, Sarah-Ruth Painter, Mattie-Lou Painter, Elizabeth-Grace Painter, Eric Mews, Brandy Smith, Trey Smith (Hannah), Adam Smith, and Alex Ingle (Crystal). Also surviving are ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

He was predeceased by a twin brother Robert “Bob” Painter; an infant daughter Elizabeth and a granddaughter Anna Smith.

A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 15, 2017 at Silver Creek Baptist Church in Mill Spring, N.C. with Dr. Chris Osborn and Rev. Robert Hefner officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1-1:45 pm at the church.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

At other times, family will be at the home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Thermal Belt Outreach, 134 White Drive, Columbus, NC 28722, Meals on Wheels/The Meeting Place, 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus, NC 28722, or a charity of your choice.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel
Tryon, N.C.