William "Bill" Oscar Lane, born on June 14, 1932, in Gates County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, in Suffolk, Virginia, at the age of 94.

In his youth, his family sharecropped, using mules (before upgrading to a tractor), and in so doing, he developed a work ethic that remained with him and motivated those around him. In 1958, he married the love of his life, Florence King, to whom he was married for 68 wonderful years. Bill graduated from Whaleyville High School in 1950. He then proudly served his country in the US Air Force as a Master Sergeant during the Korean Conflict and continued in the Air Force Reserves as a special agent, retiring from the Reserves after 39 years. He dedicated most of his life to public service as a State Trooper and Senior Special Agent for the Virginia State Police until 1992, when he retired (briefly), and then worked with the DMV as a Special Agent with the Auto Theft Unit until 1999. His commitment to his work and community left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Bill had many interests, including gardening, family vacations, fishing, building things, running his tractor and doing anything outside. He had a knack for “making do” with whatever was on hand. He and Florence also enjoyed travelling, on occasion. He found great joy in family gatherings and spending quality time with his loved ones. He also enjoyed the company of the “Hardee’s Breakfast Crew.”

Bill was a generous man, who lent a helping hand to anyone in need and donated to a variety of charities. Bill’s faith and dedication to community service were central to his life. He was a devoted member of the Waverly Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon most of his time there. Bill was a founding member of the Waverly Volunteer Rescue Squad, a member of Post #191 of the American Legion, and for 58 years, was an active member of the Waverly Ruritan Club, where he was named Ruritan of the Year in 2022. He continued attending meetings as long as he was able, with the kind assistance of Jim Stansbury, Wayne Francis, and others.

The past couple of years were difficult for him as health issues mounted, but he was still mowing grass until just last summer. He greatly appreciated all the calls, visits and prayers, and all those who provided him with assistance.

Bill (known as “Bud” to kin) was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Oscar G. and Sallie Duck Lane, and siblings Robert Lane, Mary Belle Lane Russell, and Herbert "Buster" Lane. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of 68 years, Florence King Lane; his sons, Michael Lane (Cindy) and John "Johnny" Lane (Alexa); and grandchildren Autumn Corns, Ben Campbell, and Megan Taylor. He was blessed with great-grandchildren Jason Corns, Nora Taylor, and Rudee and Grace Campbell. Bill is also survived by his siblings Marie Mathias, James "Buddy" Lane, Brenda Lane, and Debra Long, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to celebrate Bill's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Waverly Baptist Church, with Pastor Jim Jones officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at 2:00 pm at Holly Lawn Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, if desired, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Waverly Baptist Church or the Waverly Ruritan Club in his memory.

Bill Lane will be remembered fondly by all who were fortunate to know him, and his legacy of service and kindness will endure in the hearts of many.