William "Bill" Frazier, who without permission of his father carved the makings of Tazewell Speedway out of the hills of their Cave Springs, Tenn., farm along with his brother Blaine more than 50 years ago, died Sunday at Claiborne Health and Rehab Center in Tazewell. He was 87.

The Frazier brothers decided to build their third-mile track after a trip to Seymour's 411 Motor Speedway in 1964 and hosted their first race in the fall of 1965. Bill helped promote and operate the track through the late 1970s while Blaine continued with the track into the mid-'80s.

Tazewell Speedway has gone through many promoters and changes over the years but remains noteworthy as among the nation's highest-banked dirt tracks, regularly hosting national touring Dirt Late Model events.

Bill Frazier entered the ministry and the longtime member of Springdale Baptist Church preached at several congregations. The U.S. Army veteran also farmed and raised cattle.

Along with Blaine, survivors include his wife Linda Frazier, a son and grandson. The funeral was Tuesday at Coffey Funeral Home with a graveside service at Fairview Cemetery.