William David Acker, III, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, learning, service, and devotion to family. Born February 20, 1936, in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Bill was the son of Captain William D. Acker, Jr. (USNR) and Susan H. Acker. His family later returned to their hometown of Anderson, South Carolina, where he was raised.

Bill graduated from Boys High School in Anderson before continuing his education at Clemson University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He later earned a Master of Science degree from The University of Michigan. Alongside his academic and professional pursuits, he proudly served in the United States Army Reserve. A gifted scholar, he studied mathematics and statistics, disciplines that shaped a distinguished professional life. Those who knew him well also appreciated his creative spirit and lifelong love of poetry.

In 1961, Bill married Nita Alewine of Iva, South Carolina. Together they built a loving home and raised four children while sharing more than five decades of marriage. Bill began his career with Owens-Corning in Anderson, South Carolina. He later relocated to Toledo, Ohio, where he and Nita raised their family. In 1988, they moved to Shelby, North Carolina, where Bill worked for PPG before embarking on a second career with Kings Mountain Schools. There, as a secondary mathematics teacher, he dedicated himself to helping at-risk students develop confidence and succeed academically.

A man of deep Christian faith, Bill trusted in Jesus Christ as his Savior throughout his life. In Toledo, he was an active member of Monroe Street United Methodist Church, where he sang in the choir and participated in Bible study through the Christian Business Men's Connection (CBMC). Following the passing of his beloved first wife, Nita, Bill was blessed to find love again and married Evelyn Philbeck of Shelby. Together they worshiped at Rehobeth Church and Saint Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church, sharing a faithful and loving companionship during their years together.

Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Nita Alewine Acker, and by his parents.

He is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn P. Acker; his children, David Acker (Pamela), William Acker, Allan Acker (Deborah), and Jill Sharrett (James); his stepchildren, Lane Philbeck (Kathy), Phillip Philbeck (Leigh), Bret Philbeck, and Renee O (Han); his grandchildren, Heather Kidwell (Jonathan), Nicholas Sharrett, Nathan Sharrett (Katie), Sarah Grace Acker, Rachel-Beth Acker, and Luke Acker; and his great-grandson, Jude Sharrett. He is also remembered fondly by many extended family members, friends, former colleagues, students, and fellow believers whose lives were enriched by his kindness, wisdom, and steadfast faith.

A memorial service celebrating Bill's life will be held at Rehobeth Church in Shelby, North Carolina, on September 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Iva City Cemetery in Iva, South Carolina, on September 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Bill will be remembered for his quiet intellect, gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family. Whether solving a mathematical problem, encouraging a struggling student, writing poetry, or sharing his faith with others, he approached life with humility, grace, and purpose. His life was a testament to service, learning, and the enduring hope found in Christ. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting WWW.MCDOUGALDFUNERALHOME.COM