William Kinzy Hobbs, Jr.

October 7, 1941 - April 28, 2020
William Kinzy Hobbs, Jr.

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William Kinzy Hobbs, Jr., a life-long native of Wilmington and prominent business and civic leader, died Tuesday April 28, 2020.

Mr. Hobbs was born October 7, 1941, the son of Aldine Lewis Hobbs and William Kinzy Hobbs, Sr. Also preceding him in death in 2008, was a son William Kinzy Hobbs, III.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Maxine Brantham Hobbs, his daughter Kinzy Hobbs Tippett and her husband Jeffrey Clay Tippett, his granddaughter Grace McCoy Tippett, his sister Janet Hobbs Dorman and her husband Michael Norris, his brother Stephen Lewis Hobbs and his wife Kayren, his brother in law Thomas Faro Brantham and his wife Mary Rose and his sister in law Pamela Brantham and many nieces and nephews.

Mr. Hobbs was a proud graduate of New Hanover High School in 1959. He received a BA in Social Studies from Campbell College and a Masters Degree in History and Political Science from Appalachian State University.

He served as President of the NC Jaycees and was a legislative aide for the Honorable US Senator B. Everett Jordan. He joined W.K. Hobbs, Inc., the family business in 1973, distributing petroleum products throughout southeastern NC for over 65 years.

Bill was a devoted member and leader in Temple Baptist Church, where he and his family were nurtured over the years. He served in many capacities, including deacon, Sunday school teacher, finance committee chairperson, faithful and active servant right up until his death.

Mr. Hobbs was a leader in local civic affairs, serving as chairperson of the Cape Fear Area United Way Campaign and as the President of the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce for two terms in 1990-1992. He also served two terms as Chairman of the New Hanover County Department of Social Services. It was also his honor to participate on the Appalachian State University Board of Trustees for eight years. In 1971 Mr. Hobbs received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, NC’s highest civilian honor, in recognition of his service to his community and his State. Through his community involvement, Bill affected the lives of many and appreciated each friendship greatly.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Temple Baptist Church or any charity of choice.

A family graveside funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, May 2, 2020 at Oleander Memorial Gardens. The Reverend Mark Gaskins will officiate the service. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Bill’s beloved Temple Baptist Church at a later date.

Share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • May 03, 2020
    Dwayne & Rosie Tootoo Rugg says:
    What a generous, kind and compassionate man! I had the privilege of meeting Bill Hobbs when he came to visit my Sister, Easter Tootoo Limback, while she was in the hospital. I will never forget how concerned he was about my sister and the love, compassion and kindness that he gave to her not only on that day but many other days. He was truly a servant of God. We are praying for God’s peace and comfort for your family. Please feel our love and prayers.

  • May 02, 2020
    Ricky Meeks lit a candle:
    Lit since May 2, 2020 at 5:53:03 PM

  • May 02, 2020
    Tom and Susan says:
    We are indeed sorry to learn of Bill's passing. We will always remember him with his enthusiasm and big smile. He was known to us in a "past life" and then we were reunited in the cardio rehab classes a few years back. Everyone loved him and he was a joy to be around. Tom & Susan Canady

  • May 01, 2020
    Jeannie and Danny Sanderson says:
    We are so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. Bill was a compassionate man who was always positive and loved a good joke even if the joke was on him. He cared about his family, his friends, and his community. We know that he will be missed.

  • May 01, 2020
    Ben Maree lit a candle:
    Lit since May 1, 2020 at 5:12:29 PM