William Henry York

William Henry York, passed on Thursday, May 15th, at the age of 71. William was born to Eunice Gainey-York and William “Bill” York on a Wednesday in the front bedroom of his grandmother’s house in Chipley, Florida on May 12th, 1954. He faced life headstrong and with a “what can you do,” attitude. After graduating from Chipley High School in 1973, he married his forever partner, Annie Catherine “Cathy” York, in February 1974. After marriage, he welcomed his son, Christopher York, in 1974, enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1976, and finally welcomed his daughter Paula Kathleen “P.K.” York in 1977. He was a dedicated father, and true patriot to the United States as he served 22 years, traveling the world as part of his career, while never leaving his family behind. After his well-earned retirement from the United States Air Force, he continued to spend decades working hard to ensure the best for his family, finally retiring as a well loved Correctional Officer for Holmes County. William Henry York was a father figure to many, and shaped the lives, mindsets, and potential of those around him. He was the silent cheerleader you always wanted in your corner, and no matter how bad it got he’d either make you laugh or humble you really quick. We have lost the Patriarch of our family, but Heaven gained him. William Henry York, lovingly known by many names, “Beebo” to his wife, “Papa” to his children and grandchildren, “uncle”, “brother”, and “son”, is a soldier welcomed back home by God where he now joins his mother, father, brother Nathan York, sister Ellen Batson, sister Pauline Toole, and Baby York. He is survived by his wife, Cathy York. His brother Larry York, and sisters Mary Finch, Frances Bass, and Gail Howell. His children Christopher York and Paula York. His grandchildren, Jaeger Boatner, Christian York, William York, and Jaeden Harcus. His great grandchildren Kingston York, Emma Barber, and Marceline Boatner. And he is survived by Desperado York and Mercedes Barber. The family will receive guests Monday, 7:00 PM until 8:00 PM at James & Lipford Funeral Home, located at 5390 Cotton St, Graceville, FL 32440. William Henry York will be laid to rest on Tuesday, May 20th, at 10:00AM with full Military Honors as a retired Master Sergeant of the United States Air Force. Services are being held at Lovewood Church, the resting place of his family, located at 1745 Lovewood Road, Cottondale, FL 32431. Flowers are being accepted for the family by James & Lipford Funeral Home and can be sent to, 5390 Cotton St, Graceville, FL 32440. Papa’s favorite flowers are African Violets and Orchids.

William Henry York

May 12, 1954 - May 15, 2025