William "Bill" S. Durant

William S. “Bill” Durant passed away peacefully on February 3, at the age of 93. Born September 5, 1932, in Mobile, Alabama, Bill was the son of Dolive and Winnie Durant. He graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Chemical Engineering and then served two years in the U.S. Army—where he liked to joke that he spent his time “watching paint dry… literally.”

Bill later settled in North Augusta, SC, where he built a 40-year career at the Savannah River Site. Known for his technical skill and steady leadership, he authored numerous safety and risk management publications and was honored as the first recipient of the prestigious Donald A. Orth Award. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Beulah “Boots”, in 1990.

Beyond his professional achievements, Bill embraced life with curiosity, humor, and purpose. He loved traveling, hiking, woodworking, volunteering, and tackling a good puzzle. After retiring to the Hendersonville area, he became involved with both Interfaith Assistance Ministry (IAM) in the food pantry; and Habitat for Humanity, coordinating work crews and helping build more than 200 homes. At age 85, he was officially banned from working on roofs, and at age 90, he was honored with Habitat for Humanity’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bill’s life of service extended far beyond construction sites. He served as a Little League coach, Scoutmaster, Vice President of the Lions Club, President of the hospital auxiliary, church elder, and an extraordinary blood donor—giving more than 18 gallons over his lifetime.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 33 years, Judith Nightingale; his son, Clark Durant; daughters Renee Ferguson and Amy Cassidy (Chris); four grandchildren; a great-grandchild; brother, Paul (Ruby) Durant; and nephews John and Hiram. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit, story-telling, love of puzzles, and unwavering devotion to helping others.

A memorial service is planned for 11am on March 14 at St. Giles Chapel at Deerfield, Asheville, NC. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be directed to your local Habitat for Humanity.

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