CDR William S. Kerry, USN (Ret) (02 Mar 1939 - 19 Oct 2023)

William Schouman Kerry, a retired Navy Veteran, husband of 55 years & 363 days, cherished father, grandfather, and friend passed away on October 19, 2023, with his daughter Paige and his wife Jean holding his hands, and friend Bob Rothschild present for that sacred moment.

He is survived by his wife Jean Smithwick Kerry, loving daughter and son-in-law Paige Kerry-Caporicci and Chris Caporicci, and their children whom he loved dearly, Reeves and Cooper Caporicci. His son William Kerry and his children Peyton, Jane, and Claire. He was predeceased by his brother Tom and sister Marilyn. Bill's love and commitment to his family was unwavering, and his impact will be forever felt in their hearts and souls.

  Bill graduated from The University of New Mexico and earned master's degrees from the University of Utah and Old Dominion University.

  He was a Navy pilot assigned to VAW-122 embarked in USS AMERICA (CV-66) with over 400 aircraft carrier landings and was a Vietnam Veteran.

  Bill enjoyed coaching both girls and boys soccer for the Virginia Beach Soccer Club and Beach FC. He created the first all-girls soccer program in Virginia Beach. Bill, an avid outdoorsman, was a Master Gardener and President of the grassroots Bay Oaks Park Committee for 15 years. The Bay Oaks Park Committee created petitions, gained the support of thousands of citizens of Norfolk, and worked tirelessly to save hundred-year-old Live Oak trees from being demolished for a housing development, and created a park for all to enjoy. Bill took their cause all the way to the Supreme Court of Virginia and won. He and the committee leave a beautiful legacy for all who love parks and Live Oaks.

  Bill was young at heart. He loved adventure, being a naval aviator, spending time outdoors, running, a good laugh, helping others, coaching soccer, genealogy, and family vacations in Hilton Head Island every summer. He was always willing to help anyone in need, stood up for what he believed in, and worked to make our world a better place. Bill enjoyed spending time with friends and loved being with his family the most. He will be forever missed.

  A Celebration of Life held November 4, 2023 at Old Donation Episcopal Church.  CDR Kerry was interred with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery on July 17, 2025 (Section 83, Gravesite #825)