William R. Simon

William R. Simon, 85, of DeLand, passed away peacefully at his home on February 28, 2026 with family by his side.

Born on February 17, 1941, in Wheelersburg, Ohio, Bill attended Notre Dame High School. Upon graduating in 1959, enlisted in the Air Force, serving in Afghanistan and Texas where he met his wife Jean. In 1972, Bill moved his family to Deland and after 30 years, retired as a foreman in the grinding department at Sherwood Medical. Along the way, he built a life centered on faith, family, and community. Bill was a member of St. Peter Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. For many years, he generously gave his time coaching DeLand Little League Baseball and Basketball, where he made a lasting impact on young athletes and their families.

Bill found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing and gardening, enjoyed baseball, basketball and bowling, and treasured time spent with those he loved most. His steady presence, warm spirit, and dedication to his family will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Jean; his sons, Robert (Christine), Jerry (Diane), David (Teresa), and Kenneth (Amy); his daughter, Janice Ford; six grandchildren Chloe, Elliott, Bobby, Tiffany, Amber, and Ethan; and one great-grandchild, Aurora. His legacy of love and devotion will live on through them.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 5, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a wake service at 6:00 p.m., at Allen-Summerhill Memorial Chapel in DeLand. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, March 6, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church in DeLand followed by a reception. Interment will be at 1:00 p.m. at DeLand Memorial Gardens.

Bill will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William R. Simon, please visit our floral store.