William Ralph Meadows, was born on August 18, 1940, to the late Mamie Austin Meadows and the late Henry Preston Meadows, in Columbia, SC. He was educated in the Spartanburg County Schools and a graduate of Lincoln High School. While in school, William was an accomplished basketball player.  Later, William enlisted in the United States Army. He was employed with 32BJ Building Services for over 20 years in the building maintenance department. He was wed to the former Betty Bogan, on October 20, 1966.

William enjoyed restoration and customization of cars. In his spare time, he enjoyed doing home maintenance. He loved listening to music, especially jazz. In his spare time he enjoyed fishing. He enjoyed watching sports of all kinds, particularly football, basketball, and baseball. He was a fan of all of the New York teams, including NY Yankees, Giants, Jets, Nicks, and the Nets.

William was preceded in death, along with his parents, by sister, Henrietta Meadows, and aunt, Violet Meadows.

He leaves to cherish his endearing love and legacy to his wife of 56 years Betty Meadows of the home; brother, Jeffery Meadows of Matthews, NC; sisters, Violette Thornwell of Hyattsville, MD,  Yvonne (Walter) Ellis of Spartanburg, SC, and Barbara Johnson of Cheltenham, MD; aunts, Berniece Walker of Jacksonville, FL and Hattie Austin of Queens, NY; godchildren, Carena J. Meadows and Malea C. Meadows both of Matthews, NC; special cousin, Gail Meadows of Brooklyn, NY; sisters-in-law, Shirley Moss and Barbara Dawkins; brother-in-law, Johnny (Lena) Bogan; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

On Wednesday July 19, 2023, William's full life of love and service was brought to a close. His memories and spirit will be a cherished keepsake for those who knew him.