Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA

Obituary For William D. "Bill" Vickers

Devout Christian, loving family man, distinguished educator, skilled storyteller, and classic car aficionado.

William Dudley Vickers was born October 6, 1940 in Martinsville, Va. He was the third of six children born to Letha Tucker and Luther Alexander Vickers.

As a child, Bill, as he was affectionately known, always enjoyed playing with cars. He and his older brother Don would play for hours on end. As he grew, so did his love for cars. While he had an appreciation for them all, Lincolns and Fords were by far his favorite. So much so, that he later acquired several of his own and would often be seen -- and heard -- driving all over town in them.

While he loved to travel, Martinsville was always home. It is there that he attended grade school and served in the Martinsville City School system for 40 years. Coming from a family of educators, the value of a solid education was paramount. As such, he went on to get degrees and certifications from Hampton University, Southern University, Howard University, and the University of Virginia.

Bill possessed a true passion for his students, faculty and administrators and pressed upon the importance of an environment where they were able to think, synthesize and apply new concepts. But he also wanted learning to be fun. He would consistently think of ways to immerse his students in the material – so they were truly learning and not merely memorizing the content. As another tactic, he would assign nicknames to his students -- which was always entertaining.

While teaching at Martinsville High School, Bill met and fell in love with Beverly Parker. As teachers, they quickly discovered just how much they had in common. It did not take long to see that they were in fact soulmates. After a short courtship, they got married July 2, 1983. Soon thereafter they decided to start a family. In 1985 they had Ashley and in 1987 they had Alicia. Their family was now complete.

As proud parents, Bill and Beverly enjoyed nothing more than spending time together as a family unit. Whether playing games, attending church, taking vacation, or enjoying a good meal; nothing trumped time spent together. Bill’s love for his daughters was unmatched. His girls – which he often referred to as ‘his boys’ – were his world. He made it his mission to be firm but fair, instill guiding principles and support them through all of life’s challenges. He has always been both a superhero and a sage in their eyes and continues to be to this day. He will forever be their beloved ‘Diddy’.

Bill passed in peace at the age of 80 on May 29, 2021. He was preceded in death by his father (Luther), mother (Letha), brothers (Luther and Donald), sister (Gloria) as well as his wife (Beverly). He is survived by his sisters (Tanya and Sandra), daughters (Ashley and Alicia), son in laws (Sean and Mitchell), grandchildren (Jaden, Layla, Ariah, Brian and Shane) and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A public viewing will be held on Friday, June 4th at Hairston Funeral Home from 1- 5pm.

Due to COVID restrictions, a private funeral service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church.

Guest Book

Mr. V. was a one-in-a-million human being. I mourn with his family the loss of such a loving, patient, kind, spiritual, compassionate, sincere and generous man. I knew Mr. V. through my younger sister, who was in his biology class at Mavahi. He talked me through some troubled times during my junior and senior years and encouraged me to go on to college. I can think of no one who did more to further friendship between the races when Martinsville schools were integrated. I feel blessed to have known such an inspiring person, and I treasure every memory of him. With sincere condolences to his family and especially to his "boys" Alicia and Ashley, Sharon (nicknamed "Sis" by him) Williams Enzi Class of 1972, Mavahi

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Mr."V"as we called him in school he was stern loving and fair towards his students he was one of the principal's when I was in school he will be deeply missed by us all

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Just found out today that my teacher and the man that I have so much respect for has left us to go on to a better place I will miss our conversation but I will always love you for your kind words of wisdom ❤much love mr Bill vickers rest in peace my friend ❤

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I send my condolences to Ashley and Alicia on the loss of your father. Mr. Vickers would stand in the hallways of Martinsville High School each day just so he could say, "Brooks, Brooks, please don't be so loud" and I would snicker uncontrollably. There were many evenings around 4:30-5:00 I would see his car coming down Fourth street and knew he was on his way to report me to my parents. You know what came after his visit. Those were the good old days. Carlissa R. Brooks-Ashley

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My deepest sympathies to your family in your loss. Bill was a friend, confidant and mentor. He was my my most beloved teacher at Mavahi (class of 1973). We kept in touch for many years and I am grieved to hear of his passing. My most poignant memory of Bill was his leadership in Project Understanding in the early seventies. It was a movement to bring the races in harmony and it was a sucess. Robert Fowler

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I am deeply sorry for the loss of Bill Vickers and I am extending condolences to his family. My name is Art Williams, and Bill was a long time friend dating back to our days at Hampton University. We have lost a good person.

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I worked with Mr. Vickers at Druid Hills Elementary. I was a first grade teacher and he was the principal. He was kind and gentle. I never heard him raise his voice. He was so patient with the students, and teachers. He was a true gentleman...a fine, good man. One I will always remember. My condolences to his family. Liza White

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So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Vickers. He was such a special man who brought light and laughter to all who knew him. Mr. Vickers and Beverly 9 whom I had in Algebra ) was two teachers who cared for there students and wanted the best for them. He was one if it not the best teacher I have ever had, His teaching methods were second to none. Even after High School and College he asked me to come in on career day and speak to his class on occasions. He was the principal when my daughter came through Martinsville High School. He was the same man I remembered when I had him in Biology class. I would see him on occasions in the Walmart parking lot and we spoke of old times and how he was doing and where life had taken us . His love for his family and cars were always brought up in our conversations. He will be missed and I know he is with his loved ones who passed on from this world before him. Leaving his love ones behind to carry on his memory. He set the bar so high that all teachers could learn something from him. Thank you for sharing a little piece of you and your wisdom on life. Sam Wells Class of 1982 Mavahi aka: Brother Well digger

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Prayers and Condolences to the Vickers family. Deanna D Geter, AHHS Class of 1958

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Condolences to the family from the France Family. What a gifted professional who taught with a big heart and compassion for people. Loved his black Lincoln (circa 1950s). Mr. Vickers helped to establish my foundation in the Natural Sciences, which shaped my character and military career. Sincerely, COL-R Larry and Mrs. Ada France, MHS Class of 1977.

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So sad to hear of his passing. What a great professional with a heart for compassion and tolerance. Mr. Vickers was one of the prominent teachers on the Science Department. His inspiration and instruction heavily contributed to the beginning of my foundation in the Natural Sciences which shaped my character and military career. I fondly remember his Black Lincoln (circa 1950s) parked on the backside lot at MHS! RIP Sir, sincerely. COL-R Larry O. France MHS Class of 1977

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Condolence & prayers for the Vickers family. Roberta Carter

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Condolences & prayers for the Vickers family. I got to know him thru my late husband Robert L. Carter(Bobby). He was a wonderful person .

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Thank you for sharing your mom and dad with the students at Mavahi. I remembered when Ms. Parker was showing off her engagement ring at gospel choir practice. Now they are together again. May loving memories comfort those who loved them. Lealia B. Martin Class of '86

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I extend my deepest sympathy to Alicia and Ashley such beautiful girls who will always share a special place in my heart . I am so very sorry for your loss. Bill was such a wonderful person that touched so many lives and made such a huge impact . You should be so proud of your dads legacy that he left behind. He was a people person a wonderful man that was loved by so many. His beautiful wife Beverly was a special friend who I miss . Remember those precious memories that you shared and plant them deep in your heart never to be forgotten . May the light of love and the warmth of memories bring you peace at their difficult time of loss and sorrow . God bless the family sending love and prayers !! Cassandra Dandridge

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Ashley and Alicia, our deepest condolences to you and the entire family. Bill was a kind man and earned the title "Peace Maker" during his 40 years in the Martinsville City School System. He and Beverly, have left a wonderful legacy and many great memories. Bill and I first met in the spring of 1958. We were attending a conference at Langton High School in Danville, VA. We became friends the first day, and this relationship lasted until he passed. We attended Hampton University together, both majored in science (Chemistry and Biology), pledged the same fraternity and our parents became close friends. We loved getting together to talk about cars, politics, sports and relive our many shared experiences at Hampton. Bill was my "Best Man" when I married Linda in 1980, and I was his "Best Man" when he married Beverly in 1983. Proverbs 17:17 states "A friend loves always, and a brother is born for adversity". For the past 63 years Bill has been my brother. He will be missed by me and Linda and by many others who became "better people" because he influenced their lives. Jim and Linda Robinson

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Ashley and Alecia, my deepest condolences to you and your entire family. Mr. V was one of the kindest humans I've ever known and I'm thankful for the opportunities I had to have been taught and guided by him. He left an indelible mark on me as I'm sure he did so many others. He loved and loved well. I've missed his wise words over the years, but will hold on to the wonderful memories of the beautiful soul that he was. Y'all will be in my prayers and I cherish knowing that I will see him again in eternity. With love, Lisa Gipple Marsh

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A great Man Mr.Vickers was he was the first person to ever take me and a few others to the Martinsvilee Speedway as elementary students and we loved every minute of it a wonderful memory to have and to ALWAYS KEEP!!! MAY GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND LOVED ONE'S GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN REST EASY AT PEACE!!..

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An amazing,wonderful man, thank you for all you did while on this earth, prayers for the Vickers family.

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Praying for the family. Mr.vickers was one of my favorite teachers. He will be fondly missed. McCain and Cook family D

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My sincerest condolences to Ashley & Alicia, their children, Mr. Vickers siblings, and the rest of the family. As a young man I found Mr. Vickers to be a phenomenal role model. I had the pleasure of experiencing he and Mrs. Vickers, they were both treasures. God Bless everyone he had an impact on, I pray that you will take what he implanted into you and continue his legacy by sharing it with others. Dominique Hylton Martinsville, VA

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My sincerest condolences to Ashley & Alicia, their children, Mr. Vickers siblings, and the rest of the family. As a young man I found Mr. Vickers to be a phenomenal role model. I had the pleasure of experiencing he and Mrs. Vickers, they were both treasures. God Bless everyone he had an impact on, I pray that you will take what he implanted into you and continue his legacy by sharing it with others.

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So Many Loving & Wonderful Memories of Bill,As Long as I can remember I have known Bill & The Vickers Family All of us went to St.Paul's Episcopalian Church, his Sister Tanya & I were Bestie growing up,I remember Suday dinners & play time at the family home.Bill taught both of my girls Wanda (Que) & Melissa (Men-iskus)who also share fond Memories of him & both girls were in Beverly class for Geometry.He will Always be Remember as A GENTLEMAN & Dear Friend who holds a Special Place in My ❤ Heart,Rest in Peace My Dear Friend, LOVE To All the Family, Louise H.Carter, Wanda H.Payne & Melissa H.Ingram

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I have very fond memories of Mr. Vickers. I extend condolences to his family and friends. I will keep you in my prayers.

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I have very fond memories of Mr.Vickers. I send condolences to his family and friends.

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I have fond memories of Mr. Vickers. I would like to offer my condolences to family and friends.

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Mr Vickers was a staple in our community for so many years.He was the epitome of an excellent leader and teacher also.His great upbringing was instilled in him by his Father. ( Dr Vickers and his Sweet Mother Mrs Letha Vickers) who taught school also.We the Hairston family & neighbors across the street would like to extend our Deepest Condolences!! May The Good Lord comfort this Sweet Family in their time of Bereavement!!!Respectfully submitted by: Regena Hairston Penn & Family🙏🙏🙏

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I did not always make the best decisions in school. Quite frankly, I messed up and thought it was over for me. But Mr. V never gave up on me and encouraged me not to quit. I shall never forget the day I graduated from High School, as he stood across the stage beckoning me to come on. I will never forget Mr. V and remain grateful for his encouragement to never give up. Today, I am a college graduate! Rest easy Mr.V.

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Though I didn't have him as a teacher my senior year (1968-69), I always thought that he was a very personable individual. My condolences to the family.

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Mr. V was a class act! I shall always cherish the wisdom and guidance he provided throughout middle and high school. He loved all of his students and was genuinely concerned about everyone's well-being. My deepest condolences to his daughter and family. Rest well Mr. V! We'll see you in the morning.

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Sending love and prayers to the Family. He was one of the best administrators of Martinsville. Always had an encouraging words.

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John 11:25 ... Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies." The beautiful and wonderful memories of your dear sweet Bill will live forever in your hearts. May you find comfort in knowing so many loved and cared! Please know that I am thinking of you and praying for you. With Love, Betty Draper Day

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Sending our prayers to the Ashley, Alicia and the entire Vicker's family!! Doretha and April Galloway Sharing Why Mr. Vickers is an extraordinary man!!! Mr.V as I always called him has been a true inspiration in my life from a little girl living next door to me for years to seating in his classroom as a student to attending college and earning my B.S. degree in none other than, Biology. I became a teacher like Mr. V, Mr. Starr, and Joe Keen because you all are simply the best!!! That's the type of impact Mr. V has influenced my life. Will miss you on this side, smiling beautifully and saying hello!!! April May Galloway (not my real name, but my nickname from him), but now, you are walking among the angels in heaven,where you truly belong!!! Thank you for being a dedicated and loving role model on this side!! Sent with gratitude and love, April Galloway

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Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Leth & Marian Hairston

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Mr. Vickers was a Vice Principal during my years at MHS. He was possessed of perennial good cheer, kindness, compassion, and made everyone around him feel seen and valued. On one memorable occasion, having gone to him seeking help with what I rightly saw as an injustice, he gave me a life lesson in what might concisely be called the serenity prayer. Though I was a headstrong teenager, because of he made me feel heard, and patiently explained the why the issue could not be resolved in the ideal way, I accepted his explanation and got a valuable learning opportunity. Even decades later, he always seemed as happy to see me as I was to see him, though he made everyone feel special and I'm sure I was just one of many. I cannot overstate how grateful I am to have had him in my life. My sincerest condolences to all his family and loved ones on the passing of this gentle, wonderful man. Laura Bowles '91

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My condolences to his daughters and their families. Wonderful teacher, very kind man, advice giver! Thank you for always making me look at the other side of my situations. RIP Brother V! Love Always Sparrow. (Robin Watkins Hairston)

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One of my favorite teachers. He was a great role model and listener! He will be truly missed.

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So sorry to hear of Mr Vick's passing. Itook Biology under him and truly learned a lot. Richard Brown Suffolk,Va

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So sorry to hear of Mr. Vickers passing. He was a great teacher and friend. I had him for biology and had a wreck after only having my learners 18 days. He nicknamed me Collision and called me that 20 years later. Prayers go out to his family. Dianne Bennett Oakes

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Tanya,Bitsy and the entire Vickers famiy, we are so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was the nicest person that you just loved. You all will be in our prayers. Peter and Willie Mae Harris

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Mr. Vickers was the best. Always had a kind word for his students.

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Mr. Vickers was an excellent science teacher and beloved by so many of his students. He made learning fun. He had an amazing ability to remember our names, long after we graduated. I am so sorry for the loss of this great man. He had a big impact on my education. Cindy Yost Perret

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I am so sorry to hear about Bill. I knew him since the eighth grade when he and my uncle were best friends as high school seniors. He was just a nice person; steady and consistent. I always appreciated that he kept in touch with my grandparents after I had long moved from Martinsville. Just a nice guy. May he Rest In Peace Kermit Hairston Atlanta,GA

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Mr. Vickers was a model educator and great human being. He will be fondly remembered. Deepest condolences from the Lunnerman Family.

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Mr V Thank you for your teaching and support for your students! Wanda and I truly are thankful you came into our lives. RIP Wanda Harris 1980 (Weasell) Debra Hundley 1983 (Little Weasell)

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Sorry for your loss, extending condolences and a Heartfelt prayer that God's loving presence will bring to you and your family. The Life Society, Hazel W Spencer, President.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Hairston Funeral Home | Martinsville, VA