William “Dwaine” Elliott, 77, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025. He was born on June 2, 1947, in Walker County, Georgia, to the late Herbert Elliott and Nelle Hudgins Elliott.
Dwaine was raised on a dairy farm, where he developed a deep and lasting love for animals—especially horses. This passion inspired his lifelong career in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. As the founder and owner of Dwaine Elliott Stables, he provided horse training, breeding, and showcasing services for many years. Following his retirement from the horse business, he continued his work with animals as a professional dog groomer until recent years.
A man of strong values and a dedicated family man, Dwaine was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was also a proud member of Walker Road Baptist Church and found joy and peace in nature and the outdoors. He was loved by so many and was able to put a smile on your face and laughter in your heart.
He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Bernice Elliott; his son, William Dwaine Elliott II “Butch” of West Virginia; and his daughter, Karie Lynn Elliott Osler and husband Birk, of South Carolina. He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Katelyn, Dalton, Skylar, Cherokee, and Reid; great-granddaughter, Lainey; step-grandson, Adam; and step-great-grandson, River.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-son, Brian Lowman.
A funeral service will be held 12:00pm Monday, March 31, 2025 in the Chapel of Heritage Funeral Service with the Rev. Mark Ball and Rev. Patrick Mourglea officiating.
Interment will follow at Calvary Memorial Gardens.
The family will receive friends prior to the service, on Monday from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Heritage Funeral Service.
An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.
Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family.
A True Horseman and Friend. Prayers for this great family and friends.
He was loved by all!
David Polk & Family
Bernice,
I am so very so for your loss. Love and Prayers for you and your family!
Prayers of peace and comfort to Bernice and the family. He was a great horse trainer and friend
Bernice, I am so sorry for your loss. I always thought a lot of Dwaine and you of course.
May God give you Grace to fill the emptiness you will endure and help you with all the GOOD memories
you and your family have to remember. I hope to see you at the funeral unless I am unable to attend.
I have been having heart issues, but I hope I can make it to the services.
Dwaine was a wonderful horse person. However, he was an even better friend. Dwaine, had a large sweat tooth, with his favorite being banana pudding. Every time I made one, i would always make an extra for him.
He will be severely missed. Prayers for Bea and the rest of the family.
David and I have so many shares with you all. We’ve had so much fun! Loved being with you at all the horse shows, Dwaine was great with Abbie and Bethany. He saved me from a mean goose in the riding ring.
He will always be a great memory for our family!
Love you, Bernice and Dwaine
HE WAS A GOOD FRIEND SHOD HORSES FOR HIM MANY YEARS HE’S WITH HIS LORD RIDING A GOOD HORSE REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND
Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers! Great memories!