William Render

William Wesley Render, Sr. 81, of Danville, passed away on Tuesday December 28, 2010 at his home with his daughter and youngest son by his side. He was born August 2, 1929 to Nathaniel, Sr. and Mamie Render who preceded him in death. He was married to Julia Odell Warfield for over fifty years. She preceded him in death.
Wesley touched many lives and without a doubt made those lives brighter through his huge engaging smile and strong comforting demeanor. He was a proud husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle and trusted confidant to dear friends.
A Korean War veteran, Wesley was fully discharged from the United States Navy. He earned his high school diploma from the armed services institute. His patriotism and love for camaraderie did not stop there. He was a very active member and officer of the American Legion Bradley Mayberry Post #736.
His strong work ethic permeated throughout his life. He retired from the Veterans Administration (V.A.) hospital in Danville with thirty-five years of service. During his latter years at the V.A. he served as a member of the board of the V.A. Credit Union. Once retired from the V.A. Wesley seemed to think adding a part-time job to his hobbies of fishing and gardening. Wesley continued in his capacity as a security guard at the Landmark Credit Union (formerly V.A. Credit Union) for about twenty years.
Wesley, or Yunk as he is sometimes affectionately known, did manage to enjoy some pastimes besides work. He was an avid gardener. Boasting plump tomatoes, crisp cucumbers and bright peppers most years and even stalks of sweet corn a couple of years. Staying true to hunting and gathering he was a fisherman's fisherman. Even though he admits knowing nothing about the kitchen his fish fries were THE place for the tastiest catfish and more.
Wesley was also a political enthusiast. He was a member of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), The Southern Poverty Law Center, and the NAACP. His favorite TV political personality he would often exclaim is MSNBCs Rachel Maddow, because she's "on top of it!"
The music of Wesley's life was certainly a jazz ensemble with heartfelt melodies. He spent many hours enjoying the sounds of Sarah Vaughan and Cannonball Adderley. The music of his life will be sadly missed by his surviving children, Marlon Eddie of San Leandro, CA, Millard Gleason of American Lake, WA, Danita Lynne of Houston, TX and Gary Lantz of Chicago.
He will be truly missed by his sister Betty Robertson of Indianapolis and a brother Nathaniel Render, Jr. of California. Paw paw will truly be missed by his beloved grandchildren, Stanisha Render, La Jace Mcguire, Ryan Brigham, Jaya Lowery and Dav'id Smith. His memory will be cherished by his great-grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, family and friends. In addition to the aforementioned, he was also preceded in death by a son, William, Jr. (Billy), a sister Mary K. Dudley, and a brother Robert.
Services will commence at 12'Noon Tuesday January 4, 2010 at Leek and Sons Funeral Home 304 East Williams Street, Danville. Visitation begins at 11 a.m. Eulogist: Pastor Charles A. Hargrove. Internment: Danville National Cemetery.

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