William Blair Sherman, known to many as “Bill” and to a lucky few as “Wild Bill,” passed away leaving behind a life full of courage, humor, and heart.
Bill was born on February 17, 1945, in Massachusetts, to Janet Mabel Barnes and William Baker Sherman. He shared a lifelong bond with his half-brother, Jimmy Proctor, until the time of Jimmy’s passing. From an early age, Bill carried a quiet determination and a spark of wit that would become his signature.
He graduated from Hamilton College with an undergraduate degree before being drafted into the Army to serve in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. For his bravery and service, he was awarded two Bronze Stars—an honor he carried with humility.
After returning home, Bill married the love of his life, Ruth Rachel Pearlman, beginning a partnership filled with laughter, loyalty, and adventures around the globe.
He went on to attend Georgetown Dental School and eventually opened his own dental practice in Fairfax, Virginia. Though many people approach the dentist’s chair with a bit of dread, Bill had a remarkable gift: he made his patients feel at ease. With a well-timed joke and a steady hand, he turned anxiety into smiles.
In his middle years, Bill took up horseback riding with characteristic enthusiasm. It didn’t take long before he earned the nickname “Wild Bill Sherman,” fearlessly sailing over large jumps on his beloved Cleveland Bay mare, Annie. It was just one example of how he embraced life fully and without hesitation.
In later years, Bill gave back to his community by volunteering with AARP Tax-Aide services. He remained active and competitive long after his cardiologists predicted, playing pickleball and golf daily with energy, and engaging in spirited games of bridge with his devoted wife, Ruth, who preceded him in death. He was especially proud of recently shooting his age in golf, a milestone he celebrated with well-earned satisfaction.
He will be remembered for his silly humor, his fearless spirit, his hilarious stories, and his love. He is survived by his daughters, Jessica Williams and Audra Simsic; and his five cherished grandchildren, Vivian Austin, Evelyn Austin, Noah Simsic, Anya Simsic, and Ethan Simsic.
He is deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, his friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188, on Sunday April 12, 2026, beginning at 3:00 pm, with a reception to follow. The service will be livestreamed through the Nelsen Williamsburg Facebook page.
In lieu of flowers, please consider an alternative expression of remembrance.
