William (Bill) Verra

William “Bill” Manuel Vierra, Sr., 83, of Durham, NC passed away on Friday, March 13, 2026, in Durham, NC.

William was born on May 19, 1942 in Jackson County, NC to Antonio "Tony" Vierra and Eloise Ward Vierra. William was raised by his grandparents: Frank and Bonnie Ward. He graduated from Hillsborough High School. William married Phyllis Ann Cartner Vierra on April 16, 1962. He worked 20 years at Budd Piper Roof company as a roofer and spent 21 years working for UNC Faciltities Services as Shop Supervisor.

William had many joys in life including saltwater and freshwater fishing. He was known on Triple S Pier as "Mr. Sheephead". He was apart of BNB Bassmasters since 2008 as he was an avid bass fisherman and was in bass fishing clubs for 34 years. William also enjoyed bowling, going to flea markets, auctions, hunting and spending time with his family.

William is survived by son, William "Billy" M. Vierra, Jr. (Tammie); granddaughter, Amber Pippin (Tim); grandsons: Bradley Szolnoki and Matthew Szolnoki (Mackenna); great-grandchildren: Sebastiano and Finnegan Szolnoki; sister, Meleta Hunter; nieces: Janet Hunter and Lisa Reaves (Darrell); and cousin, Deliah McClure.

William is preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Cartner Vierra; daughter, Stephanie Ann Vierra; and sister, Arbutus Ann Gadd.

In lieu of flowers, please make any donations to The Bucket List Project Foundation, www.thebucketlistfoundation.com, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.