William Leason McClung

William Leason McClung, 81, passed away on January 13, 2022. He was born in Princeton, WV to the late Blair and Lillian McClung. A year later, his family relocated to Norfolk, VA when his father got a job at the Naval Base to help with the World War II efforts. Bill grew up in the Monticello Village neighborhood near Wards Corner. He graduated from the then Norfolk County School, Norview High class of 58. Following graduation, he enlisted in the Air force going through boot camp at Lakland AFB in San Antonio, TX and advance school at Biloxi, MS. He then was stationed at Hamilton AFB outside of San Francisco. It was here that he met the love of his life Joann Oliver McClung. He was honorably discharged in 1962 and they returned to his home in Norfolk.

He was a journeyman electrician with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #80, working for Austin Electric Company for 33 years until his retirement. Bill was an active leader for the Boy Scouts. As an Explorer Scout, he earned the rank of Silver, than equivalent to Eagle, in Post 180. When his son became a Cub Scout, he took on the role of Cub Master for Pack 42 in Chesapeake, VA and then Assistant Scout Master in Troop 42. He was a Vigil Honor Member of the Blue Herron Lodge Order of the Arrow. Bill was recognized for his volunteer work with Scouting by being awarded the Silver Beaver, the highest honor the Tidewater Council could bestow on him. He was also very involved with his church, Wesley Grace United Methodist Church in Norfolk; he enjoyed teaching Sunday school, singing in the choir, helping with projects and serving in church leadership.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 60 years, Joann McClung; son Rev. William L. McClung, Jr. and his wife Carrie Anne of Courtland, VA; daughter Peggy Ann Woestman and her husband Kevin of South Riding, VA; and five grandchildren, Andrew Leason McClung, Noah Patrick Woestman, Breanna Leigh Denson, Norah Alice McClung, and Claire Elizabeth Woestman. His parents and his younger siblings, Rev. James A. McClung and Mrs. Sandra Aman, predeceased Bill.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM, on Saturday, February 5, 2022 at Wesley Grace United Methodist Church, 288 East Little Creek Road, Norfolk, VA 23505. Masks and 6 feet social distancing required!