William McKenney Flythe Sr., 67, of Suffolk, passed away on Friday, March 25, 2016, at the family residence. He was born in Courtland to the late William Henry and Virginia Mae Flythe. He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, LaVerne Saunders Flythe, and son, Dameyon P. Flythe.

William was a veteran of the United States Army and served with the 2nd Armored Division during the Vietnam conflict. Upon his return home, he began working for the Roundtree Dairy Farm. After realizing that farming would not support his young family, he spent five years working as a mechanic for Blair Brothers and also worked part-time for Garnett’s Fish and Bait. In 1975, he began as an electronics technician for Lipton Tea and, in 2005, retired after 30 years of service. In 1985, he started W.M. Flythe Electric Co. and, in 1999, after obtaining his general contractor’s license, started L.L.W. Building Co.

He was a devoted member of Faith Temple Ministries, where he served faithfully as deacon and treasurer and sat on the Board of Directors. He also supported Joy Apostolic Ministries and believed firmly in their future growth. He was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Virginia Board for Contractors, National Fire Protection Association and various other civil, community and trade organizations.

He leaves to cherish three sons, William M. Flythe Jr., Darrell O. Flythe, Wilvern M. Flythe; two daughters, Lorraine Davis and Angela Flythe; two sisters, Wilhelmina Santiful (Luther), Brenda Roberson (Steve); four brothers Melvin Flythe, Harvey Flythe (Joyce), Tommy Flythe (Susan) and Anthony Flythe (Monica); four grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral will be held at noon Friday, April 1, 2016, at Faith Temple Ministries, 746 Wellons St., officiated by Elder Dwayne Strothers. Interment will be in Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. Viewing will take place at the funeral home on Thursday from noon to 7 p.m. and starting at 10:30 a.m. before the service at the church. Funeral arrangements with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home Inc. Condolences may be extended to the family at www.crockerfuneralhome.com.