William (Bill) J. Furse Jr. passed away on Monday, Jan. 25, 2016, at
 
 Monroe General Hospital in Ocala.
 
 
 Bill was born in Luray, S.C., to the late William Furse Sr. and Virginia
 
 Rouse. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; son, Ken; granddaughter,
 
 Ashlee; and great-grandson, Jaxxon Furse.
 
 
 Bill was a 28 year veteran of the Air Force, retiring at the rank of
 
 Sergeant Major in the Air Force intelligence service. He served in both
 
 the Korean and Vietnam wars with distinction. Bill was awarded over 10
 
 medals for his military service including the bronze star, gallantry
 
 cross, meritorious service and Air Force commendation medals. He was one
 
 of the founding NCO’s of the U.S. Strategic Air Command.
 
 
 Bill was an active member of the Masons, with his home lodge in Inglis,
 
 Fla. He achieved 32nd KCCH, was a past district deputy grand master, and
 
 was chairman of many committees supporting charity work. He was known by
 
 his friends for his warm heart and giving manner – always ready to help
 
 those in need. During his military career, he was the Air Force hand ball champion.
 
 After
 
 retiring in Florida, he became a tournament bass fisherman. He was always
 
 ready to take people fishing.
 
 Bill will be missed by all who knew him.