Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

February 5, 2026

George William “Bill” Climer, Jr., 81, of Charlotte, passed away on February 5, 2026. Born February 27, 1944, in Athens, Tennessee, he was the son of the late George William “Jack” Climer and Evelyn Smith Climer. 

Bill was a graduate of Tennessee Wesleyan College, where he served as student body president. He earned his Master of Divinity from Duke University, where a lifelong passion for the Blue Devils began. Serving on special appointment from the Holston Conference to the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, Bill began his career as Executive Director of Camp Thunderbird on Lake Wylie. He would later describe these twenty years as the most fulfilling of his professional career. Subsequently, he held various leadership roles in camping and development at the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Known affectionately as “Big Bill” to many and “DaDa” to his grandchildren, he had a rare gift for connecting with people and took genuine interest in the lives of others. His curiosity was part of his charm; if you met him, you probably answered a few questions! At Camp Thunderbird, he was famous for learning the name and hometown of every camper in every session, with a standing bet that he would be thrown into the lake if he failed. His love of camping began with earning the Boy Scouts of America Eagle Scout rank and continued through college and seminary while working at Camp Sea Gull. He was later honored as a Legend of Camping through the Southeast Campfire leadership programs.

A man of deep faith, Bill was a longtime member of Sharon United Methodist Church, now South Park Church, where he served in numerous volunteer and leadership roles.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Mary Steele Climer; son George William Climer III; daughter Elizabeth Climer Taylor (David); grandchildren Penelope and Evie Climer, and Broughton and William Taylor; his first cousin, who was like a brother, Michael L. Thomas (Jennifer); and many beloved extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Camp Thunderbird Scholarship Fund (1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, South Carolina 29710), honoring Bill’s lifelong commitment to making the camp experience accessible to all.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at South Park Church, 3151 Apex Drive, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28211.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral and Cremation Services, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com