William Bill'' H'' Dove

ROCKY MOUNT – William “Bill” H. Dove, age 90, passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023. Born in Nash County, NC on May 4, 1933, he was the son of the late William “Billie” Hardison Dove and Elmyra Sanders Dove Thompson. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Jeanette Stancil Dove; his paternal grandparents, Daniel Dove, Sr. and Azile Witherspoon Dove; his maternal grandparents, William Leggett House and Jessie Elmyra Southall House; and his son-in-law, Harold Truelove.

Bill was an exceptional architect who dedicated his talents to serving our state, church, and nation. As the President of DKW Architects, he brought his creative and smart solutions to numerous projects, leaving a lasting impact on our communities. His passion for giving back extended beyond his professional life, as he served as President of the NCSU Alumni Association and held trustee positions in various esteemed institutions such as Louisburg College and at Englewood United Methodist Church. Additionally, he was a founder of the Birchwood Country Club, leaving a legacy of recreation and camaraderie. Bill and Jeanette’s commitment to education was evident through their involvement in the Dove Caldwell Fellowship in the School of Design and Bill’s participation in the committees for Pitt Community College. He also dedicated his time to the Boy Scouts of America and was a proud member of Phi Kappa Phi. He graduated from NCSU in June 1956 and became a licensed architect in January 1957. It is worth noting that Bill held the distinction of being the oldest practicing architect in North Carolina. Furthermore, he was honored with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, where he held the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary, enjoying all the rights granted to members of this esteemed order. Bill’s contributions and dedication will always be remembered, and his impact will continue to inspire future generations.

Bill is survived by his children, Lea Ann D. Nichols and husband, Tom, of Red Oak, JoEllen D. Rogers and husband, Tony, of Williamston, and William “Billy” H. Dove, II of Rocky Mount; his grandchildren, Laurel Currie and husband, James, William Rogers, and Brandon Rogers; his great-granddaughter, Charlotte Currie; and his brother, Henry Allen Thompson.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 3:00 PM at Englewood United Methodist Church, 300 S. Circle Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 with Dr. Reginald “Reggie” Ponder and Pastor Nathan Wittman officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. A visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM prior to the service in the Englewood United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

The Dove family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Donna Wall, a truly special angel who provided unwavering dedication and love to Bill and his family. Her service and commitment were exceptional, and she made a profound impact on their lives. Additionally, the family extends their deepest appreciation to PruittHealth Hospice in Rocky Mount for the exceptional love and care they provided during this challenging time. Their support and compassion were truly invaluable, and the family is forever grateful for their presence during this journey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Bill’s memory to Englewood United Methodist Church, ATTN: William H. Dove Scholarship Fund for Missions, PO Box 7128, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 or the Methodist Home for Children, 1041 Washington Street, Raleigh, NC 27605.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.