William Henry Diggs, Sr

William Henry Diggs Sr. was born on June 4, 1932, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Beatrice Diggs and William Henry Shaffer. He passed away on May 11, 2023, at the Gilchrist Center. As a child, William attended Baltimore City Public Schools for his education but did not complete his schooling due to the need to start working at an early age in order to support his family. On January 28, 1991, he married Mildred Beatrice Mitchell Diggs, better known as Bee, in Baltimore, Maryland. Throughout his lifelong career, William was consistently employed, driven by his passion for hands-on work and assisting others. He held various positions, including warehouse foreman and truck driver at Lee's Furniture, property manager at Sommers and Sommers, and even owned his own company called Diggs Moving and Hauling Inc. With a diverse skill set, William excelled as a versatile mechanic and “Joe” of all trades, proficient in maintenance, mechanics, carpentry, electrical work, and more. He possessed the remarkable ability to fix anything that was broken and effortlessly move any item that needed hauling. No task was too daunting for him. During his leisure time, William indulged in collecting unique items, watching classic westerns, playing solitaire, solving crossword puzzles, and showcasing his culinary talents through his specialties of liver, steak, fish, and cornbread. Above all, he treasured moments spent with his family. William's friendly nature allowed him to forge numerous friendships wherever he went, and his absence will be deeply felt by those near and far who had the pleasure of knowing him. He is preceded in death by Beatrice Diggs "Midge" (mother), William Henry Shaffer (father), Beatrice B. Mitchell Diggs (wife), Minnie A. Smith (mother of children), Charles Diggs (brother), Robert Diggs (brother), John Diggs (brother), Alfred Diggs (brother), Joseph Diggs (brother), David Diggs (brother), and Elaine Maker (sister). William leaves to cherish his memory Emma Haskins (sister), Shirley Miles (sister), Diana Garris (sister); 5 children: Kim Davis, William Henry Diggs Jr, Alfred Diggs, Karen Ching (Ronnie), and Michael Diggs; 1 stepdaughter: Vonzella Williams Coleman (Derek); 13 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; one special friend: Patricia Elsey (Cookie); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and family friends.

Tributes

William Henry Diggs, Sr

June 4, 1932 - May 11, 2023