William (“Bill”) E. Prince, Jr., passed away peacefully after a period of declining health, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and deep devotion to family and alma mater. Bill was born on November 17, 1950, in Smithfield, North Carolina, and most recently made his home in Cape Charles, Virginia, and Little River, South Carolina.

Bill was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Carla Leigh Prince Poole; his parents, William Everette Prince Sr. of Smithfield, NC, and Gladys Butler Prince of Columbus County, NC; and his younger brother, James (“Jimmy”) Thomas Prince.

He is survived by his cherished granddaughter, Hannah Shea Poole Holmes, and her husband, Preston Holmes, of Clayton, NC. Bill also leaves behind Marion (Dize) Sofield of Cape Charles, VA, and a beloved extended family: Hannah Sofield and her daughter, Ava Claire Sofield-Hester, of Raleigh, NC; Cannon McKinley-Sofield and his husband, Lee McKinley-Sofield, of Scotland, U.K.; and Tripp Sofield and his husband, Tim Fucci, of Raleigh, NC.

A dedicated professional, Bill spent many years working in the field of environmental engineering. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found two publicly traded companies, where he served as CEO and President before retiring.

Bill was perhaps most famously known among family and friends as “GoDuke,” a nickname that captured his unwavering passion for Duke University and its athletic programs—especially football. Game Day in Durham, NC, was a sacred tradition, often marked by joyful tailgates and family gatherings. Bill took great pride in making sure everyone had the proper Duke attire and team spirit to match.

Though his later years were marked by health challenges, Bill remained steadfast in faith. His family takes comfort knowing he is now at peace, free from pain, and resting in the promise of John 14:2–6—“In my Father’s house are many mansions…”

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made in Bill’s memory to a charity of your choice or to a cause supporting Duke University athletics.