William Franklin Dize

William Franklin Dize, 88, passed away Saturday, April 12, 2025 at his home on Tangier Island, VA. Born September 30, 1936 on Tangier, he was the son of the late Colson Dize and Ila Wells Dize.

A hardworking, strong-willed, and humble man, William could be found every morning for more than two decades working on the Courtney Thomas helping load and unload goods for residents on the island. His faith was just as strong as his work ethic, and he lived by the Word each day. He shared his testimony throughout the community and was known for his regular phone calls to friends and neighbors just to let them know he was thinking of them.

William is survived by his lifelong sweetheart and wife of 63 years, Dottie Ann (Williams) Dize and their children, William Franklin Dize, Jr. and his wife, Michele, and Debra June Bradshaw and her husband, Charles; sister-in-law, Ruby Dise; grandchildren, Betty-Anne Bradshaw and Mariah, Lauren, Lindsay, Whitney, and Geri-Lyn Dize; great-grandson, Mason Dize; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brothers, Fuller Dise and Preston Dize and sisters, Pearl Morgan and Marie Pruitt.

The family invites friends to join them for a time of sharing at Swain Memorial United Methodist Church on Friday, April 25, 2025 at 1:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. All are welcome to a luncheon at the Sunday School building immediately after the service.

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams Funeral Homes, Onancock, VA and Parksley, VA.

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