William “Billy” E. Sligh, age 89, of Saluda, South Carolina, passed away at his lake home on Wednesday, April 10. He was born in Hopewell, Virginia on August 13, 1934, and was raised by his paternal aunt and uncle, Bertha and Bill Sandifer.
He attended Columbia High School where he was an honor student, played football, and was active in student government. In addition, he competed in speedboat racing receiving numerous, local, state and national championships.
After working for West Columbia Sport Shop for several years, he opened Sligh’s Riverside Sport Shop which quickly became a meeting place for local fisherman. In 1961, he expanded opening Sligh’s Package Shop. Upon his retirement, it was the longest privately-owned package store in the Columbia area.
He was an avid fisherman, water skier, snow skier, and gardener. He was devoted to his dogs, the Atlanta Braves, the Lady Gamecock basketball team, and Lexington and Clover High School football teams.
He is survived by his daughter, Linda Woolbright; his son-in-law, Marty Woolbright; two grandchildren, Ashley Woolbright and Perry Woolbright; eight great-grandchildren; and two great-great grandchildren.
A private family service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to his favorite charity, Pawmetto Lifeline, 1275 Bower Pkwy, Columbia, S.C. 29212