William Atkins Nash, Jr. Lt. Col (RET)

William Atkins “Billy” Nash, Jr., 93, of Warrenton, Virginia, entered Eternal Life on Monday, August 7, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born in Warrenton, Virginia to the late William and Alice Nash. Billy was a man of many words, and he never met a stranger. Billy received his formal education from Rosenwald High School and worked in construction and the food service industry before moving to Petersburg, VA to attend Virginia State University (VSU). At VSU he majored in Physical Education and became a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Additionally, he joined the Reserve Officer Training Corps and was a member of the VSU football team.

After graduating from Virginia State, Billy was commissioned in the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant, discovering that he had a passion for military service as well as playing golf.  In 1954, Billy married the love of his life, Ms. Dolores Jenkins and moved to France. Together, they served the nation and dedicated more than 20 years of service serving in various places to include France, Germany, Battle Creek, MI, Vietnam, and Laos.  Billy had an outstanding military career earning numerous personal and unit awards to include the Legion of Merit and Bronze Star before retiring in Fort Belvoir, VA as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Quartermaster Corps.

After retiring from the Army, he went on to work for Xerox in Rochester, NY in various managerial positions.  Billy also integrated himself into the Rochester community by joining and leading a local golf club.  He truly treasured his time in Rochester and often spoke fondly of that time in his life.

Billy eventually retired from Xerox and returned to his home state of Virginia to begin another phase of his life.  Billy’s passion for golf became a priority in his life after retiring.  To stay active, he got what he termed as “the best job of his life” in working at the golf courses at Fort Belvoir and Andrews Air Force Base.  He was also a member of the National Negro Golf Association (NNGA), Richmond Chapter.  One of Billy’s proudest moments as a member was winning the Richmond chapter’s golf tournament at the age of 82, which sent him on to compete in the national tournament. He also found time to play golf all over the country at some of the nation’s most prestigious golf courses.  

Billy took on a very important role in helping to raise his nephew, William (Little Billy) M. Triplett from the time he was born. He loved him dearly and raised him as if he was his own son. He also took on the grandfather role to Kennedi, Little Billy’s daughter, whom he adored immensely. Billy was so very proud that Little Billy followed in his footsteps in joining the U.S. military and becoming an Officer.  He often stated that it was a proud day to attend Little Billy’s commissioning at the United States Naval Academy because it was a place that was closed to him when he was growing up. Billy’s efforts, as well as others that joined a segregated military, helped pave the way for that opportunity.  

Billy touched the lives of so many people with his unconditional love, humor, and kindness. He always lit up any room he was in. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, uncle, and grandfather. Although he is no longer here in the physical, we will always cherish his memories, as his legacy lives on in our hearts and minds.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, William and Alice Nash, sister, Phoebe Triplett and his loving wife of 68 years, Dolores. He leaves behind to cherish his memories: Nephew/Son, Captain William (Linda) Triplett, USN, Retired, Dumfries, Virginia; Nephew Kevin Triplett, Baltimore, MD, Niece/Granddaughter, Kennedi Triplett, Reston, VA, and other loving relatives and friends. 

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, from 10 am until 11 am with funeral services starting at 11 am at Faith Christian Church, 6472 Duhollow Road, Warrenton, VA 20187.  Dr. Decker H. Tapscott, Sr. will deliver the eulogy.

Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.

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