DETROIT, MICH. — William H. Royal (Bill) was born on June 23, 1936 to the late Bill Royal and Florine Taylor of Ironton. He departed this earthly realm on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Detroit, Mich. after a second bout with cancer. Bill fought the good fight, though God decided it was time to bring him home.
Bill was the oldest of eight children, of which five proceeded him in death, O’Gretta, Josephine, Shirley, Caroline and Gayle. He was also preceded in death by his loving grandfather and grandmother, Mr. David Platt and Louise Taylor; two uncles, James and David Taylor, and three aunts, Thelma Taylor, Allene Mayo, and Carol McKee.
Bill leaves behind one daughter, Rose, two sons Derrick (Audrey) and Darryl (Kenyetta); three stepchildren, Darlene, Annette and Conrad, Jr.; one sister, Michele; one brother Sylvester; three uncles Marshall, Frank, and Jacob (Cheryl)Taylor; one aunt, Bertha Johnson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Bill attended school in Ironton, and then joined the U.S. Air Force to serve his country for six years. While in the service, he got married and had his first son who also preceded him in death, William H. Royal, Jr. (Billy).
Bill was a dedicated and devoted father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved his family and friends and was well respected and loved by many. In his spare time he liked listening to music, watching sports and playing checkers.
Bill was just an awesome man and will truly be missed by family and friends.
A memorial service was Thursday at the Cantrell Funeral Home, Detroit.