William "Bill" Gaines, Sr.

Mr. William Matthew Gaines, Sr. affectionately known as “Bill”, a son of the late Gurnie and Lucille Moore Gaines, was born in Vance, SC.

Bill gained his heavenly wings on March 1, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family and Promedica-Heartland Hospice Staff, after an extended illness.  The staff of Promedica-Heartland Hospice affectionately cared for him until his transition.

He attended the public schools of Orangeburg County. At an early age he became a faithful member of the Rock Hill AME Church and was a Sunday School Teacher for many years. After completion of his education, Bill joined the US Army and served in the Korean War and earned the National Defense Service and Good Conduct Medals. His first job after serving his country was at The Naval Weapons Station in Charleston, SC, where he worked as a Tugboat Engineer until he retired. Post Retirement, Bill became self-employed and was the Owner and Operator of Gaines Trucking until his health began to fail. 

Bill was a man of many talents, loved to help others and was considered a #1 Diesel Mechanic.  He was also admired for his great farming skills and would love to share his crops with family, friends, and the community.

Bill was joined by Holy Matrimony to Maybell Irick of Holy Hill, SC.

He was proceeded in death by his parents, Gurnie and Lucille Gaines, stepson, Donald A. Irick and brother Joe D. Gaines.

Bill leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and devoted wife of 67 years, Maybell I. Gaines of the home; Two sons, William Gaines, Jr and Quran Scales of the home; three daughters, Patsy (Al) Davis of Vance, SC, Bronzell and Kathy Gaines of Vance, SC; One Brother, Willie Brown of Vance, SC; one Sister, Delores (Timothy) Ravenel of Cross, SC ; one Brother-In-Law, Lawrence Irick of Holly Hill, SC; one Special Aunt, Mildred Joyner of Vance, SC; one sister-in-law, Francine Gaines of Hopkins, SC along with a host of Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends.

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