Union native

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Willie “Bill” Peake, 63, husband of Betty Peake, of 2414 Old Whitehall Road, Charlotte, departed this life on Sept. 25, 2007 at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, N.C.

Born July 2, 1944, he was a son of the late D.J. and Dorothy Peake, he was a dedicated and faithful member of First Mt. Zion Baptist Church for more than 27 years. He served as Deacon for several years, as president of the Voices of Zion Choir and as a member of the Usher Board. Bill lead a life of dedicating his time serving the Lord.

Bill was an entrepreneur and shined his light of confidence, faith and great accomplishments in several areas of development, and did not mind sharing how he did it. He gave advice, encouragement and how “to do's” when it was needed. He was open minded and always had the ideal way of bettering himself and providing for his family. If there was a way, he found it. He understood that all of his accomplishments were all because of the Lord he served and made his Savior. He was the true meaning of courage, strength, guidance, integrity and loyalty.

Surviving in addition to his wife are a son, Derrick Peake; three daughters, Jeanette Peake (Troy), Angie Peake and Francine Peake; four grandchildren, Emmanuel Wilson, Breshae Wilson, Jalen Peake and Bryson Clark; four sisters, Mary Hightower, Star Utley (Arthur), Liz Peake, of Charlotte, and Carrie Peake (Rufus) of Jamaica, N.Y.; three brothers, Clarence Peake (Patricia), Steven Peake (Sandra) of Charlotte, and Jimmy Peake (Marilyn) of Jamaica, N.Y.; a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, 2007, at First Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Charlotte with interment in Thomas Chapel Cemetery in Santuc.

The body will be placed in church at 11 a.m. for viewing.

The family is at the home, 2414 Old Whitehall Road, Charlotte.

The Lewis Funeral Home of Union has charge of arrangements.