William Fleming Drinkard III

William Fleming Drinkard Ill, lovingly known to family and friends as "Bill," passed away suddenly at home on July 8, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born on January 2, 1956 in Huntington, West Virginia, Bill spent his life rooted in the Mountain State. A longtime resident of Madison, West Virginia, he was a man whose intelligence, determination, and work ethic were matched only by his love for his family.

Bill dedicated his professional life to mining and environmental engineering. Education was something he valued deeply, and his curiosity never faded. He always had a nonfiction book nearby, or a computer tab open on whatever subject sparked his interest, with a highlighter, mechanical pencil, and a notebook at the ready. He believed there was always something new to learn and, throughout his lifetime, earned multiple degrees while continuing to build a distinguished career.

For 48 wonderful years, Bill shared his life with his beloved wife, Marjorie Lynn (White) Drinkard. They meet on a blind double date in 1975 and knew immediately they would spend the rest of their lives together. They were married on June 17, 1978 at Madison United Methodist Church, where he remained a member and devoted early morning biscuit maker.

Bill and Margie began their married life together in Blacksburg, VA while he completed a Bachelor of Science in Mining Engineering at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

One week after graduation, they moved to Huntington while Bill completed a Master of Business Administration at Marshall University in 12 months. Upon completion, they moved to Madison where they built a life together and raised the family that became the center of Bill's world.

Bill's career began through a mining engineering cooperative education program with Westmorland Coal Company while attending Virginia Tech. Determined to understand every aspect of the profession, he chose to start underground, gaining firsthand knowledge of the work from the ground up, and earning a foreman certificate. After graduation, he spent much of his career as a mining engineer with several West Virginia coal companies. While working full time and raising a family, he continued his education, earning a Master degree in Environmental Science again from Marshall University. Later in his career, Bill joined Potesta & Associates, where he enjoyed the variety of projects and appreciated the flexibility that allowed him to be involved in his children's athletic events.

Bill was a proud father to his daughter, Martha Artley (Kenny) of Fort Mill, South Carolina and his son, Dylan Drinkard (Hannah) of Fairmont, West Virginia, and nothing brought him greater joy than watching his family grow and succeed.

He was also a loving and proud grandfather to Dorothy Artley, Todd Artley, and Wright Drinkard. Whether playing, offering encouragement, or simply spending time together, he treasured every moment with his grandchildren.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, William "Corky" Fleming Drinkard Jr., and Wilma Jean (Saunders) Drinkard. Also, his grandparents, Fleming and Evelyn Drinkard and Ollie and Martha Saunders, and father-in-law, William Asa White.

Although an only child, Bill was never without family. He shared close relationships with his Saunders and White families, his mother-in-law, Lois C. White, many cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, neighbors, and countless friends who became family over the years. He greatly enjoyed the time spent surrounded by the ones he loved at the White Family beach vacations and Saunders cousin reunions.

Bill believed in taking care of both his body and his mind. He was an avid runner and weightlifter, maintaining a lifelong commitment to health and fitness. As a young man he excelled in athletics and his Huntington East High School track record still stands today, a testament to his dedication and competitive spirit.

His interests were as varied as they were passionate. He enjoyed swimming, billiards, fishing on the New River from his beloved fishing camp, gardening (especially the hard work of digging and preparing the soil), and spending time outdoors. Starting as a young boy with marbles, Legos, and tinkering, he found satisfaction in working with his hands, whether tackling projects around the house or working in his basement.

Music was another lifelong passion. Bill loved listening to great singer songwriters, both at home and at live performances, appreciating the stories and craftsmanship behind their music.

He was also a musician himself, often retreating to his basement to play guitar and harmonica, finding peace and joy in making music simply for the love of it.

Despite never slowing down, Bill also appreciated life's quieter moments. Few things made him happier than relaxing on the beach from sunrise to sunset with a good book in hand, enjoying the sunshine and rhythm of the waves.

Those who knew Bill will remember a man of remarkable intelligence, unwavering determination, quiet strength, genuine kindness, and steadfast humility. He believed in hard work, lifelong learning, and caring deeply for those he loved. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the values he instilled, and the countless quiet acts of love and service that touched everyone who knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Bill's memory will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

In Lieu of flowers please consider donation to Madison United Methodist Church Faith, Family, and Food Fund or the Scott High School Cross Country or Track Program.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held on August 15, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Handley Funeral Home, Danville, WV. Visitation begins at 1:00 pm, with Rev. Rick Swearengin officiating.