Mr. Charles William (Bill) Avery, age 80, passed away Thursday, June 8, 2023 in Waco, Texas.
A celebration of life will be held in California the last week of July. Date TBD
Bill was born December 2, 1942, to James Lynn Avery and Margaret Maxine (Jones) in Long Beach, California. He was a longtime resident of Long Beach, California. He attended Woodbury University where he met his wife Betty Avery of North Hollywood. They had two children, Janice Marie Avery and Laura Lynn Compian. They were married until her passing in May 2023.
Bill was an active member in the Long Beach community. He sat on the Cultural Heritage Commission in addition to other community organizations. For many years, he and his brother Lynn built single family houses in the high desert of California. From 1986-1996, he taught carpentry and cabinet making classes at Long Beach City College. In his later years, Bill ran a non-profit company that provided apartments to low-income families.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James Lynn and Margaret Maxine; wife, Betty Avery; sister, Ann (Andres); and granddaughter, Emily Rose.
He is survived by his children, Janice Avery of Texas, Laura Compian and husband Johnny of California; brother, Lynn Avery and wife Diane of Arizona; sister, Nancy Avery of California; grandchildren, Michael Compian, Charlie Avery; and granddaughter in spirit Saira Canales; and many nieces and nephews.
Thank you to all the family and friends that prayed, visited, and sent their well wishes and love.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to ask people to donate to Marley’s Mutts in his name.
Place of Service: ,
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My sincere sympathies on Bill’s passing, so soon after Betty’s death. They were both good people, and the world is a bit dimmer with their passing. Bill had a wicked sense of humor, but had a good heart. May he and Betty rest in peace together.
My Great Uncle, My *hilariously stubborn* Grandfather, My Santa Claus (yes, every year religiously),
Your baby sister, Nancy Avery’s grand baby, Madeline- who is just as stubborn as you and my granny combined and just as “rebellious” (although, I call it bravely standing on what we believe- despite social majority). Unbeknownst to this obituary, where I have been categorized into “many nieces & nephews”…. this is the man who I call my GRANDFATHER, my Grandpa Bill. No denying how important his life and soul was & is to my granny & I. My Grandpa Bill always saw the best in me & treated me like a princess & I will forever have the upmost gratitude for him- As well as Betty.
Although life had created physical distance, I know my soul is deeply connected to yours, Grandpa Bill. I know you are covering me, protecting me & guiding me through spirit.
I love you! Your Beloved Granddaughter. Ase!