William Mathias Yonce

          FLORENCE – William “Bill” Mathias Yonce, 87, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, after a period of illness.

          Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, August 19, 2024, at St. Luke Lutheran Church with a period of visitation immediately prior beginning at 10:00 a.m. A private committal service will be held later at Florence National Cemetery.

          Mr. Yonce, a man of deep integrity and influence, was born in Johnston, SC, to the late Frank David Yonce, Sr., and Margaret Timms Yonce. He graduated from Johnston High School and shortly thereafter proudly served his country by joining the United States Air Force in 1957. After his honorable discharge in 1961, he continued his service in the Air Force Reserves and the Air Force National Guard, exemplifying his commitment to duty and country.

          In 1961, Bill embarked on a career that would define his professional life. He attended Reppert Auction School in Indiana and began a distinguished career as an auctioneer. Before dedicating himself fully to auctioneering, he worked in radio, excelling as a booking agent, on-air talent, and in management roles at various radio stations in South Carolina and Georgia. From 1966 until his retirement, Bill traveled across the country as an auctioneer, forging lasting friendships and leaving a positive impact on everyone he met. In addition to auctioneering, he was a licensed real estate agent and broker in multiple states, skillfully combining his two professions. His leadership extended beyond his work, as he served on the boards of both the SC State Auctioneers and the National Board of Auctioneers. As a founding member of the Auctioneers’ Association of SC, Bill co-authored the Auctioneers licensing law in 1973. His contributions to the industry were recognized when he was inducted into the National Auctioneers Hall of Fame in 2010.`

          Bill lived his life with a spirit of service, using his auctioneering talents to benefit others. He was deeply involved in fundraising efforts for Francis Marion University, where he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree in recognition of his contributions. His philanthropic endeavors extended to organizations such as the National Rifle Association, the Dave Thomas Foundation, the Fisher DeBerry Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, McLeods Chef and Child, and The Girl Scouts, where his generosity and dedication made a lasting impact.

          For over 50 years, Bill was a devoted member of St. Luke Lutheran Church, where he found joy in being a soloist and participating in the church community. He also played an active role in the Florence Kiwanis Club, further demonstrating his commitment to serving others.

          In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his sister, Josie Emmelyn Yonce Longcrier, and his granddaughter, Hope Braddock.

          He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruthelle V. Yonce of Florence; his daughter, Brandon Ellis Yonce of Florence; his brother, Frank David Yonce, Jr. of West Columbia, SC; his bonus daughter, Tracey Braddock (Bryan) of Florence; his bonus son, Jimmy Daniel (Amy) of Moncks Corner, SC; his cherished bonus grandchildren, Hannah Prozzi (Jacob), Haley Braddock, Hayden Braddock, Holly Braddock, Jenna Daniel, all of Florence, and Riley Daniel and Wyman Daniel, both of Moncks Corner; his great-grandchild, Rowan Prozzi; his niece, Sonya Y. Urban (Phil) of West Columbia; and his nephew, David Yonce of Lexington.

          Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Medicine Free Clinic, 500 S. Coit St., Florence, SC 29501, or to St. Luke Lutheran Church, 1201 Cherokee Road, Florence, SC 29501.

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