Mr. William Robert Hairston, Sr., 91, was born December 27, 1922 in Johnson City, TN to the late Rev. A.Y. Hairston, Sr. and Mrs. Creola Hairston. He passed away June 26, 2014 at his residence following a period of illness.

William moved to W-S, NC at an early age and was educated in the public schools of WSFC School System.
He attended WSTC now WSSU and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree and attended New York University and graduated with a Master's degree in Administration.

Mr. Hairston was a veteran of the US Army, served in World War II, and was honorably discharged. His career included tenures as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and school administrator. He retired from the WSFC School System after 30 years of service.
William always encouraged his sons to achieve excellence. He was a kind-hearted, benevolent man of strong faith who was a lifelong member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he was taught under the leadership of Rev. File, Dr. Goodwin, Rev. Campbell, and Dr. Churn. Additionally, he was a soloist for the Senior Choir, Stabat Mata, Chancel Choir, and Funeral Mass Choir. He was also a former Sunday School and Timothy Group (Laymen's League) member at Mt. Zion. Occasionally, he was called to instruct Bible Study classes at Shiloh Baptist Church.
He resided in the Slater Park Community.

Mr. Hairston was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Eliza Eccles Hairston; son, Robert Lauche' "Shay" Hairston; 3 brothers; and 1 sister.

He is survived by his sons, William R. Hairston, Jr. (Jacqueline) and Harry Hairston; step grandson, Darius J. Smith (Zasha); step-great grandson, Eisen J. Smith; beloved niece, Mary Ann Robinson; special care provider, Kandie Mackey; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 12noon Thursday, July 3, 2014 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with Dr. Serenus T. Churn, Sr. officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Cemetery. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 12noon on Thursday at the Church.