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William Medford Equils, 88, of Washington, died Thursday, July 10, 2020, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Equils was born in Hyde County, April 9, 1932, to the late William Riley and Ella Mae Jarvis Equils. He was married to the former Dorothy Sawyer, who preceded him in death.

He was a member of the Sladesville Baptist Church.

Mr. Equils was a veteran of the United States Air Force who served during the Korean Conflict, Vietnam War, and a tour of duty in Thailand. After honorably serving his country for over 20 years, he retired from the Air Force with the rank of Master Sergeant.

Following his military career, he returned home to work on the water as a commercial fisherman. He enjoyed hunting and was a member of the Rose Bay and Scranton Hunting Clubs.

Surviving is a daughter, Debbie E. Sawyer (Jerry), of Washington; a son, Barry Equils (Lou), of Sladesville; four grandchildren, Eddie Collins, of High Point, Ashley Crouse (Daniel), of Clayton, Savannah Equils, of Greenville, and Tanner Equils, of Washington; two great-grandchildren, Noah Cutrell and Brynn Crouse; and special niece, Audrey Lumsden.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Gilbert and Eugene Equils, and two sisters, Rosa “Tiny” Cahoon and Essie Sadler.

A graveside service was held 2 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2020, at the family plot in Soule Cemetery. Pastor Mike Wheeler officiated.

The family received friends Sunday evening from at Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter, and other times at Mr. William Equils’ residence in Washington or the home of his son, Barry Equils of Sladesville.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter.