George William "Bill" Climer, Jr.

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

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  • Stella Padua

    Words cannot express how much I loved Mr. Climer. Being able to care for him as his nurse, each day was truly a blessing. He was such a great person. Made me laugh with his sense of humor, & gave me encouraging words of wisdom. I will always be grateful for his friendship & love. My most heartfelt condolences to the Climer family. My love & prayers are will you all.

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  • Mike and Brenda Craig

    Bill had a great influence on our girls at Camp Thunderbird, and as a family friend.
    He was a BIG KID at heart ❤️

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  • John Williams

    I am sorry to hear about Rev. Climer's passing. I used to work at Camp Thunderbird for two summers (1986 & 1987). I have fond memories of Camp Thunderbird and Rev. Climer's leadership while I was there as a kitchen staff counselor. My family and I will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Grace and peace, Rev. John M. Williams III

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  • Juana Lugo-Chalmers

    I know words can’t ease your pain but I hope you know I am thinking of you. Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss. Wishing you peace to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. May Our Heavenly Father Jehovah provide you comfort and strength.
    Ecclesiastes 7:1

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  • Jeff Curry

    I have many great memories of Bill as my boss at Camp Thunderbird for three summers and soon after as a client during a fundraising campaign for the Charlotte Y called “Invest in a Winner”. Bill shared his huge heart with all the campers and staff, sometimes with a little tough love, who were lucky enough to benefit from his leadership. I was certainly one of the. Fare well Bill. You will backing remembered, respected, and loved.

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  • Nancy Sosin Johnston

    My deepest condolences to the Climer family. I spent my summers at Camp Thunderbird in the 70s. So many wonderful memories of Bill and Camp. He will be remembered well and surely missed.

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  • Nell (Lambert) Wilder

    Elizabeth, (it’s been a long time) but I’m terribly sorry to hear about your father‘s passing. As a long time camper at T-bird (where I learned to ski and sail!) I have many fond memories of your father, sitting at the head table in the mess hall! He did remember every camper’s name! But if I recall correctly he did get thrown in the lake once while I was there. It was a sight to see! I can only imagine how many lives he touched. What a blessing. God be with you in this time. -Nell

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