The founder of an iconic Carrboro restaurant has passed away after a long battle with degenerative lung disease.

Bill Fairbanks, the longtime owner of Carrburritos on W. Rosemary Street, died on Sunday at the age of 68.

The restaurant announced Bill’s passing on social media Monday, sparking an outpouring of grief and sympathy from current and former residents as far away as Montana and Warsaw, Poland.

Bill and his wife Gail opened Carrburritos in 1997, shortly after moving to the Triangle from Oakland, California. It’s been a popular spot ever since, for the last quarter century. Recently the business expanded to two more locations, one in Davidson and another in Research Triangle Park.

“They created a place that is a gathering spot for Carrboro, the bite before a show at Cat’s Cradle, the easy take out for the family, a place for margaritas on first dates, anniversaries and everything in between,” wrote a spokesperson for the restaurant. “They built a place where customers and employees are appreciated and celebrated, and he will forever be in this place with us.”

“He created a wonderful environment in which to work,” added his daughter Rae Mosher, who’s taken over the business. “He will be so missed.”

Bill Fairbanks passed away at his home in Saxapahaw. He and Gail had been married for 47 years.

 

Photo of Bill Fairbanks courtesy of Rae Mosher.

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