William Upshaw, age 82 passed away peacefully at home in Sterling, VA on Monday, April 1, 2024. William was born October 9, 1941, in Hope Hull, Alabama to the late Charlie and Ella (Arrington) Upshaw, who preceded him in death.

William attended public schools in Montgomery, Alabama graduating from George Washington Carver. He worked as a Taxi driver in Montgomery for some years before marrying his sweetheart, Sallie Mae Sanders, whom he followed to Lynn, MA and married.  William made his home in Lynn where he worked and raised his family.  William had a gift for working with his hands. He worked as an Auto Body Technician at the Seacrest Dealership until they closed and others Body Shop following.  There was no vehicle so damaged that he could not restore as new. William loved listening to blues music, cooking on the grill in his garage, fishing and entertaining family and friends.  William was known for his opinions on many subjects, he stood for what he believed, yet was humble enough to respect others and man enough to admit it, if proven wrong.

William is survived by his loving and devoted family, wife of 61 years, Sallie, sons, Reginald Upshaw and William Upshaw, Jr. (Tonnie); daughter, Angela Fay Upshaw Smith, honorary children, Gary Cherry, Omayra Pimentel and Elizabeth Figueroa; foster child, Tahmeika Johnson, grandchildren, Zoe Upshaw, Sophia Upshaw, Ella Upshaw, Jamal Upshaw and Jasmine Upshaw; siblings, Jimmie Upshaw (Joyce), Mary Upshaw Jerman and Bessie Upshaw Lawson (Elliott); whom he raised, he is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. William was preceded in death by his sister, Rose Upshaw Robinson, and brothers, Charlie Upshaw Jr. and Alfred Upshaw.  William moved to Sterling almost two and a half years ago. His friends in Lynn and new friends in Sterling, he was most grateful for.   Our thanks to the hospice workers, the aids, doctors and nurses for his care. William will be forever missed and always loved.

In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to St. Jude's Research Hospital or the charity of your choice in the name of William Upshaw Sr.

…. Weeping may endure for a night, but Joy cometh in the morning. Psalms 30:5

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