William Adrian "Opey" Whorton

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of William Adrian Whorton, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left us on September 7th at home surrounded by his wife and daughters. Known by most as “Opey” or “Op,” he was a wonderful man whose life was marked by service to his community and a profound love for his family and friends.

Adrian was born on July 30th, 1953, and raised in Whortonsville with his three older siblings, Judy, Bryan, and Amy. He was a dedicated and hard worker throughout his life, starting on his family farm, then pursuing entrepreneurship, and eventually returning to farming in his later years where you would find him most days in the field, driving a tractor and listening to his books on tape.

His roots ran deep in Pamlico County and Whortonsville. He was a pillar of the Bethel Free Will Baptist Church, where he was a member since childhood and served as superintendent there for over 40 years. His commitment to bettering his community extended beyond the church where he served as a member of the Pamlico County Board of Education, a commissioner for Pamlico County, and a board member for Tideland Electric Company. His leadership was characterized by quiet confidence, authenticity, integrity, and a genuine concern for the welfare of others.

He is preceded in death by his father McAdoo, his mother Ethel, and his brother, Bryan.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie of 48 years, his beloved daughters, Audra and Susan; his sons-in-law, Jason and Patrick; his six grandchildren, Jackson, Elliot, Olive, Maple, Vivian, and Lincoln, who all cherished and adored their sweet and funny Pop-Pop; and sisters, Amy Spruill and Judy Rutherford.

Adrian was a constant source of joy and humor. He never met a stranger and his good-natured character, and infectious laughter made every gathering memorable. His hobbies included tennis, reading, going out to eat, watching his favorite TV shows, and spending time at home with his family. He was present, attentive, and kind and he always offered truth and perspective without judgment. His love for us was absolute and he never hesitated to say it and show it. He was a source of comfort, strength, advice, levity, wit, sarcasm, and always an appropriate Seinfeld reference. Most of all, he was a source of boundless love and support and we are better people because of him.

Adrian, Op, Daddy, and Pop-Pop will be remembered not only for his contributions to his community but also for his warmth, his kindness, his loving nature, and his one-of-a-kind personality. He touched countless lives and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 10th at Daniels-Sadler Funeral Home in Alliance between 6-8 pm. A funeral to honor Adrian’'s life will be held on Wednesday, September 11th at Bethel Free Will Baptist Church in Whortonsville at 11 am. A graveside service will follow the funeral in the Whortonsville Cemetery. His legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of Pamlico, PO Box 6, Bayboro, NC 28515 or Whortonsville Cemetery, 272 Wildwood Dr., Oriental, NC 28571.