William Fetzer Obituary

William H. Fetzer, Jr., "Billy," 58, of Horry County, South Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, September 22, 2025. Born in Hartford, Connecticut, on November 11, 1966, Billy was the son of Elaine Nelson and the late William H. Fetzer, Sr. He is survived by his longtime girlfriend, Judy Wolf; his step-children Darcy, Crystal, and Henry; his step-grandchildren; and his four sisters, Kristin (Andy), Gretchen (Randy), Sarah (Walter), and Kayla (Justin). He also leaves behind his nieces Maeghen, Christine, Justine, Carolyn, Teallia, Emily and Calista; his nephew, Jordan; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; and his beloved dogs, Alice and Gunner. Billy was predeceased by his step-son, Josh; his father, William H. Fetzer, Sr.; his grandparents, John and Ellen Nelson and George and Madolyn Fetzer; and his brother-in-law, Adam Plourde. Billy had a huge heart and lived every day to the fullest. He had a sharp sense of humor, a big personality, and an even bigger heart. Fiercely loyal, he loved his family deeply-especially his sisters, even if they drove him crazy at times. Above all, he adored his mother and would have walked to the ends of the earth for her. He was endlessly proud of his family and could always be found bragging about his nieces, nephews, and cousins, cheering them on in their accomplishments and adventures. His journey carried him from Connecticut to California and back again before he finally settled in South Carolina with Judy. A lifelong animal lover, Billy filled his life with pets of all kinds. Over the years he cared for everything from dogs and chickens to rescue turtles-and even a "house-trained" goat named Billy, who never went without leftovers when Billy ate out. Together with Judy, he built a beautiful chicken coop at their home. Billy had a passion for the classics: blasting The Doors, sailing his boat Knot a Clew, riding Harley-Davidsons, fishing, woodworking, and telling unforgettable stories. He was a captivating storyteller, known for his unforgettable tales-including "the ostrich story" and "the sandworms." Wherever he went, Billy left behind laughter and lasting memories. A talented craftsman and marine mechanic, Billy worked for many years at Burr's Marina in New London and Affordable Marine in Plainville, Connecticut. Gifted with the ability to fix or build nearly anything-a talent he inherited from his father-he never quit until the job was done. Whether creating a custom "Finger Ladder" for his sister's workplace or hanging lights on a towering tree for his nieces' school, Billy was always the first to lend a hand. He was also a proud member of the Terryville Lions Club and loved volunteering at the Country Fair each fall. A memorial will be held on November 11th 2025 in South Carolina. More details to follow. A graveside service will be held in the spring of 2026 at Locust Grove Cemetery in Massachusetts. In lieu of flowers, and in true Billy fashion, the family asks that you honor his memory by performing a random act of kindness for someone in need. Condolences may be made at www.burroughsfh.com Burroughs Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Murrells Inlet (843.651.1440) is in charge of arrangements. To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.