William Lewis Staton

Mr. William Lewis Staton, age 94, of Sanford, NC, transitioned to eternal rest on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at his residence.

William Lewis Staton, most lovingly known as Dub, Dubell, or WL, was born on March 28, 1932, in Cumnock, North Carolina, to the late Jessie Mae Burnett Staton. He spent much of his life rooted in the Taylor’s Chapel community, where he was known, respected, and loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

William married the love of his life, the late Lessie Goldston, on July 19, 1958. Their union stood as a testament to enduring love and commitment, lasting 62 devoted years. From this beautiful bond, they were blessed with five children—Eugene, Michael, Toni, Wonda, and Kenneth. Their love extended through generations, growing to include nine grandchildren, fourteen great‑grandchildren, and two great‑great‑grandchildren. William cherished his family beyond words, and his life was a true reflection of unwavering love and dedication.

In his early years, William was a devoted and faithful member of Terrell Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, where he first built a strong spiritual foundation that guided him throughout his life. His faith remained an important part of who he was, and he later continued his worship at Taylor Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, where he stayed connected to his love for God and his church community.  He was affectionately known as the family’s “gentle giant,” bringing laughter, comfort, and joy wherever he went.

Although his formal education ended after the third grade, William possessed extraordinary natural ability and wisdom. Blessed with anointed hands, he became highly skilled in many trades, including carpentry, fishing, lumber work, mechanical repair, and engineering. He had a remarkable gift for building and fixing things, using those talents to provide for his family and serve others.

One of William’s greatest joys was fishing, a passion he lovingly shared with his family. He made sure each of his grandchildren had their own fishing pole and took pride in spending time with them by the water, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. He also instilled a deep sense of pride in his children, often reminding them that no matter the circumstance, they should always stand tall and say,“I’m Dubell’s child!”

William was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Jessie Mae Burnett Staton; his devoted wife, Lessie Staton; his three sons, Michael Staton, Toni Staton, and Kenneth Staton; and his siblings, Rudolph Staton, Joyce Hadley, and John Hadley.

He leaves to cherish his precious and joyful memories, his loving children, Rev. Eugene Staton (Annette) and Wonda Staton. He was a proud grandfather to Toniea Staton, Antoinette Staton, Michael Baldwin, Jasmin Martin (Brandon), Kenecia Staton, Qualeya Staton, Shaquelia Staton, Kenneth Staton Jr., and Michael Staton.

His legacy continues through his great‑grandchildren: Sahnya, Bryce, Alexis, Dynasty, Jayda, Izaeyah, Kimaiyah, Jayceon, Davion, Aireas, Yalize, Sy’on, Jream, and Journee; and two great‑great‑grandchildren: Journey and Legacy.

He also leaves behind daughters‑in‑law, Annette Staton, Peaches Staton and Pamela Staton; son‑in‑law, Reggie Petty; brothers‑in‑law, Edward Lee Goldston (Latima) and Jimmy Ray Goldston; sisters‑in‑law, Pearlena Staton, Stella Goldston, and Pamela Goldston.

William is further survived by his siblings: Brenda White, Rebecca Hadley, Rosie Hadley, Judy Hadley, William Hadley (Alleen), Bobby Hadley, and Billy Hadley.

He will also be fondly remembered by his extended grandchildren, Mariah Coggins, Rayna Mendoza, Chasity Mendoza, and Martha Glover‑Wade; special loved ones, Emma McIver and Jeanette Thompson; and a host of other family members and dear friends.

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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Sanford, NC