March 1, 2026,89, Goldsboro – William Lee Bizzell, Jr., 89, affectionately known to many as Billy, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.
Billy was born in Wayne County on September 19, 1936, to the late William Lee Bizzell and Jessie Kearns Bizzell. A proud graduate of North Carolina State University, he remained a lifelong and devoted Wolfpack fan.
He retired as an insurance agent from his family-owned insurance company after many dedicated years of service. Billy was also a faithful member of St. Paul Methodist Church in Goldsboro.
An avid and accomplished bridge player, Billy was a longtime member of the Goldsboro Duplicate Bridge Club. He founded the Thursday afternoon game and faithfully served as director of both groups for many years. He held the record for master points with the club and took great pride in sharing his love of the game, always encouraging others to appreciate and enjoy bridge as much as he did.
Billy was equally competitive in the Senior Games at the Peggy Seegars Senior Center, where he earned numerous medals over the years. He relished the spirit of competition and the camaraderie that came with participating—and winning.
He found great joy in the outdoors, especially when fishing or hunting, and he eagerly anticipated the arrival of dove season each year.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Methodist Church, followed by a service to celebrate Billy’s life at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary with Rev. James Harry officiating. A private interment will be held in Willow Dale Cemetery.
Billy is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 58 years, Shelby Hill Bizzell; his son, William Scott Bizzell; his daughter, Jessica Leigh Bizzell Worrell; and his cherished grandchildren, William Douglas Sutton and Harrison Lee Sutton.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Billy’s memory to St. Paul Methodist Church, 204 E. Chestnut Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
