William Washington was the youngest of thirteen children born to Thomas Washington and Martha Bryant Washington on July 8, 1920 on Broughton Hill in Berkeley County, South Carolina. Preceding him in death were: Lillie Louise, Rena, Lillie Mae, Rebecca, Mattie, Thomas, George, Louis, Johnnie, Joseph, Beulah and Robert. William was raised in a Christian home which was evident in his acceptance of the Christian faith at an early age. During his return to South Carolina, he became a member of Wesley United Methodist Church. His formal education was in a small school house in Pinopolis, South Carolina. William joined the military at an early age. He served in World War II and received an Honorable Discharge. After returning home, William took up a trade in Masonry. He married his childhood sweetheart, Essie Wilson. From this union, six children were born. William moved north to Cleveland, Ohio where he lived for the next fifty years. While residing there, he was a self employed entrepreneur. Near the end of those years, he built his house in South Carolina. In 1997, he returned permanently to South Carolina where he resided until his death. Those left to cherish memories of him are: his loving and devoted wife of seventy plus years, Essie; devoted children, Ruby M. Brooks (Robert), Willie M. Marshall (Dannie), Constance Washington and Dr. William J. Washington all of Cleveland, OH, Melvin U. Washington (Jacqueline) of Springfield, MA and James D. Washington (Justine) of Bury St. Edmonds, England; fifteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; one great, great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews; and a host of other relatives and friends.