William Orrison Wood

William “Bill” Orrison Wood, aka "Wilhammer," 60, of Eden, NC, has logged off for the last time.

Bill passed away on Wednesday, May 29th, 2024, in the hospital next to his wife Jean Ann. The memories he created and the laughter he brought will remain cherished by those who knew him. 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Jean Ann; his son, Fred; and daughter-in-law, Lauren. He also leaves behind his brother Tony and his wife Susan, brother-in-law Sam, brother-in-law Paul and his wife Sheila, his mother-in-law Ann, his "bonus" family, Pat and Kristie, and his cherished nieces and nephews. Bill was a family man through and through, always ready with a witty remark or a tie to history. 

Professionally, Bill was a cyber security expert at NCAT, where he spent his days outsmarting hackers and protecting digital realms. Driven by his love of history, particularly World War II, Bill was essentially a walking encyclopedia, misunderstood by many. His passion for war planes, ships, and battles was unmatched. 

A die-hard Beatles fan, his home often echoed with the timeless tunes of the Fab Four. 

Bill’s true passion, however, lay in war games. He was the proud host of war games in his guest house, aptly named the Eden War Room. Infamously known as "Wilhammer," he loved strategizing with friends, attending war game conventions, and spending countless hours in epic battles of wit and skill. Those who knew him will remember his sharp mind and even sharper humor, always ready with a sarcastic remark or a clever quip. 

In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed cooking up a storm in the kitchen and tending to his garden, where he found solace among the blooms. A lover of felines, Bill and his wife shared their home with five cats, with Lacie serving as his loyal sidekick. 

A Memorial Gathering will be held on June 15th, 2024, from 2-5 pm at Morehead Fair House, 420 Boone Rd, Eden, NC 27288. In the meantime, the family encourages you to raise a glass, listen to a Beatles song, or engage in a spirited game of strategy in his honor. 

Bill may have left the game, but his legacy and the laughter he brought will endure.