Long-time Old Newsboys/Goodfellows president dies

OCP file photo of Old News Boys/Newsies collecting donations in Rothbury. (Bill House is not pictured)

OCEANA COUNTY — The long-time president of the charitable organization, the Oceana Old Newsboys and Goodfellows, William Wirt “Bill” House, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, Dec. 12, at the age of 69.

House, who had been the Oceana Old Newsboys/Goodfellows president for the last 23 years, died just days after the organization’s big collection drive Saturday, Dec. 7.

The “Old Newsies” as they are also called hit the streets the first Saturday in December for the annual fundraiser that helps less fortunate children and families during Christmas.

OCP file photo (Bill House is not pictured)

Stationed at major intersections, the Old Newsies/News Boys/Goodfellows gather donations from passing motorists.

“For 79 years, the Old Newsies have been helping the needy children in Oceana County and serving our less fortunate families at Christmas time,” states House in the Old Newsies newspaper handed out to donors. “Times are still very difficult for many and especially at this time of the year. Thanks to the efforts of our members and generous support from businesses and individuals, we carry on the words of our motto to: ‘Let No Child Be Forgotten.’”

“Bill had a big heart, and he was a tireless volunteer,” states his obituary from Harris Funeral Home in Shelby. “He could be counted on to show up when asked to lend a hand, and everyone who worked alongside him knew that he would tell them exactly what he thought and do his best to make good things happen.

“The Oceana Old Newsboys and Goodfellows was an organization that was especially important to Bill, and he served as president of the group for the last 23 years. Exemplifying that group’s motto – ‘Let No Child Be Forgotten”’ – Bill was actively working on the 2024 campaign at the time of his passing. Bill relied on his vast network of friends to help the group, and he personally oversaw raffles and other fundraising events.

House is survived by his sons, Jake House (Alicia Christensen and her daughter, Chloe Christensen) and Levi House; granddaughters, Lola House and Winnie House; brother James (Ann) House; his sister-in-law, Gail Martin; nieces and nephews; and innumerable friends including his lifelong friends, Steve Fry and Ted Kreilick. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon Martin House and his parents, Jack and Nancy House.

Visitation for family and friends will take place Friday, Dec. 20, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Harris Funeral Home.

For the complete obituary, click here: sfhome.com/obituary/WilliamBill-House

Oceana County Press extends its sincere condolences to Bill’s family and friends.

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