Mr. Orvel D. Bond, age 99, departed this life and went to be with his Lord on Friday, April 10, 2026.
He was born on July 18, 1926, in Sullivan County (Horse Creek), Tennessee. He spent most of his life in Kingsport and proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his service, he had the opportunity to travel the world. In addition to his 22 years of service in the United States Army, he worked 27 years at Holston Defense and at Kingsport Times News, where he delivered newspapers into his 90s. Orvel retired three times throughout his life, reflecting his strong work ethic and dedication.
He was a lifetime member of the Elks and a Mason, and a devoted member of Shiloh Baptist Church.
Before becoming a full-time Pawpaw, Orvel enjoyed gardening, cooking, and catering for family and friends, participating in church activities, maintaining the family cemetery, and cutting grass.
From time to time, he could be found riding the family lawnmower, making his rounds visiting family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Alfred Bond and Mrs. Virginia Pierce Bond; five brothers, Mr. Eldridge “Bud” Bond, Mr. Oscar S. “Willie” Bond, Mr. Milton Bond, Mr. William “Matt” (Ethel) Bond, and Mr. John Douglass “JD” Bond; and six sisters, Mrs. Louvenia (Dewy) Bond Beason, Mrs. Theresa (Malcolm) Bond Dykes, Mrs. Olivia (B. W.) Bond Lockett, Mrs. Lenora (George) Bond Bowditch, Ms. Roselene “Rose” Bond, and Mrs. Betty Bond Dickens.
He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 66 years, Beatrice. The two were united in marriage on Christmas Eve, December 24, 1960, a love that stood the test of time.
He is also survived by his children, Cindy Spears of Kingsport, Darlene (John) Story of Johnson City, Jacqueline Paige (Robert) Turner of Kingsport, Tony Bond of Kingsport, Tim Bond of Kingsport, and Deshannon Bradley of Kingsport. He also leaves to cherish his memory his grandchildren, Deonna, John Jr., Jessica, Taylor, Darius Sr., Ke’Osha, Laquan, Lavontae, Tiesha, Jaquavis, Zayden, and Zoé; 18 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Joyce Bond and Members Bond; brother-in-law, Thomas Dicken; and a host of extended family and friends.
As a veteran, community member, and family patriarch, his influence has been immeasurable.
The visitation will be on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the Central Baptist Church, 301 Carver Street in Kingsport, TN 37660.
The Celebration of Life Services will follow from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at the church.
The Interment will be from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM at the historic Pierce Chapel AME Church Cemetery, 1810 Seaver Road, Kingsport, TN 37660.
Care of the Bond Family is entrusted to Clark Funeral Chapel and Cremation Service, 802-806 East Sevier Avenue, Kingsport, TN 37660.
