The Valdosta Daily Times
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William Thomas Battle of Valdosta affectionately known to his family as “Brother” was born on April 10, 1943 in Valdosta to the late Blaney and Melissa Battle. He departed this life on July 30, 2012.
William was educated in the Valdosta School System. He graduated from Pinevale High School. He enlisted in the United States Army. When he finished his term in the Armed Forces, he further educated himself in Radio and Broadcasting. William loved the Lord and included Him in his life walk. Coming from a praying mother, he knew that God was his help in all times of trouble. He was employed by John Hancock Financial Services for a number of years. He retired from John Hancock but continued to work independently on a part time basis.
He married Stella A. Dow Aug. 5, 1967, and two children were born from this union, Joel Battle and Vanessa Battle-Robinson. Three grandchildren, Blake Ashley Robinson, Brandon Charles and William James Battle of West Palm Beach, Fla. He was preceded in death by Mabel Jones, grandmother, mother and father, Blaney and Melissa Battle, one brother, Ed Battle, four sisters, Cellie Byrd, Mattie Nelom, Janice Williams and Edna McClinton.
The sun set on William Battle’s life on July 30, 2012. He leaves to mourn and cherish his memories a son and daughter Joel Battle, Vanessa Battle-Robinson; three grandchildren, Blake Ashley Robinson, Brandon Charles and William James Battle; two sisters, Ruby Hughley, Valdosta, and Mable Sanders, Miami, Fla.; nieces and nephews, Elease Havard, Dorothy Lee Powell, Albert McClinton, Barbara Williams, Keith Williams, Doc Nelom Jr., Ruth Butler, Ruby Fox, Richard Nelom, Cellie Nelom-McMillan, Lugene Nelom, MonaLisa Nelom, Samuel Sanders and Rodney Sanders; a special cousin, Willie Lee Daniels; great-nieces; great-nephews, cousins; a host of other relatives; in-laws and many sorrowing friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012 at Tabernacle COGIC. Elder Johnny Bradley will officiate. Burial will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery. — Harrington Funeral Home.
