Kingston, NY, November 4, 2025
News Summary
The Kingston community mourns the passing of Pastor William Edward Radcliffe Sr., a devoted family man and veteran known for his faith and passion for golf. Celebrated for his service in the Korean War and his dedication to the Fountain of Life Christian Church, William’s legacy of love, faith, and community engagement will be cherished by all. A celebration of his life will take place on November 9th, serving as a testament to his impactful journey.
Kingston, NY Mourns the Loss of Beloved Pastor and Veteran William Edward Radcliffe Sr.
The community of Kingston, NY, is filled with heartfelt sorrow as they remember the life of William Edward Radcliffe Sr., who peacefully passed away on October 26, 2025, at the age of 93. Surrounded by the soothing sounds of his favorite songs and his beloved daughter, Joanne, at his side, William left this world with a legacy that touches countless hearts.
Born on June 9, 1932, in Hensonville, NY, William was the son of George and Marion (Peterson) Radcliffe. Kingston had been his lifelong home until he and his family moved to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in 2018. His family, which includes his brother James Radcliffe and his wife Lynne, daughter Joanne (Radcliffe) Freer with her husband Michael O. Freer, granddaughters Heather (Steltz) Brogden and her husband Ryan, Shannon (Radcliffe) Geisler and her husband Gabe, and great-granddaughter Taylor Radcliffe, cherish his memory. William also left behind many nieces and nephews who adored him.
William was dearly predeceased by his loving wife of 64 years, Joyce (Massa) Radcliffe, as well as his son, William E. Radcliffe Jr., and his sister, Lanetta. His dedication to family and faith helped shape his vibrant life, and his warm spirit is missed by all.
A Life of Faith and Service
William’s journey of faith began when he became a born-again Christian in 1964, leading him to accept Jesus as his savior. His commitment to his belief system saw him ordained as a pastor in 1983, and he devoted many years serving as a Pastor and Elder at the Fountain of Life Christian Church in Kingston. Known for his passion for biblical counseling, he enjoyed quoting Bible verses, providing guidance and support to all who walked through his doors.
Military Service and Community Engagement
In addition to his service to the church, William was a proud combat veteran, having served in the U.S. Army’s 7th Division 101st Airborne from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean War. His bravery and dedication earned him a place as a decorated veteran, and he remained active in veterans’ affairs as a life member of Joyce Schirick VFW Post #1386 and a member of the Graybeards, a Korean War Veterans Association.
Passions Beyond the Pulpit
Outside of his pastoral duties, William was a man who enjoyed the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and sportsman who loved golfing. His loyalty extended to his favorite sports teams, the NY Giants and NY Yankees. For 36 years, he worked as a purchasing agent for IBM in Kingston and Poughkeepsie, retiring in 1991. His contributions to both his workplace and community remain significant.
A Melodious Soul
Although William retired from active ministry in 2012 after 29 years of pastoring and 19 years of biblical counseling, his voice lived on. A member of Boy Scout Troop 9 in 1941, he had a beautiful tenor voice that was often heard singing praises to the Lord. With a talent for whistling and a deep appreciation for various types of music, he brightened every room he entered with his warm and engaging personality.
Celebration of Life
To honor the memory of this remarkable man, a celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 9th, at 2:00 pm at Fountain of Life Church. William will be interred on Monday, November 10th, at 2:00 pm at Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston, NY. Those wishing to express their sentiments are encouraged to make donations to Joyce Schirick Post #1386 VFW or the Fountain of Life Christian Church in lieu of flowers.
As Kingston remembers William Edward Radcliffe Sr., his legacy of love, faith, and service will forever linger in the hearts of those he touched.
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Additional Resources
- Daily Freeman: William Radcliffe Obituary
- Wikipedia: William Edward Radcliffe
- Legacy: William Radcliffe Obituary
- Google Search: William Edward Radcliffe
- Encyclopedia Britannica: William Edward Radcliffe
- Google News: William Edward Radcliffe
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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