William Fair Boyd

Bill was born December 10, 1936. He was witty, loving, adventurous, and curious about the world around him. He always kept his childlike sense of wonder. He was constantly satisfying his intellectual curiosities including astronomy, biology, and ornithology. Even after he lost his eyesight, he continued to enjoy books on tape, including biographies, documentaries, and world history. He earned two Master’s Degrees and a Doctorate simply because he loved to learn.

He was an avid traveler who sought to have authentic experiences with all those he met. He loved trekking in Nepal. He developed a sweet friendship with his Sherpa guide and corresponded with him throughout the years. He walked the Great Wall of China, explored his Scottish ancestry in Scotland and was amazed by the stunning beauty of Norway’s fjords. His life was enriched by the people he met and the beauty of God’s creation. He passed down his love of travel, for which his family is forever grateful.

He spoke with an economy of language; when he had something to say, listeners would hang on every word. His words were intentional. He encouraged. He challenged, but most importantly, he listened. People were drawn to him because he had a way of making them feel truly seen. His dry wit put others at ease and carried him through the many physical challenges he experienced as he grew older. He felt that there was no point in complaining. It was better to just take one day at time and depend upon God’s abundant mercies.

He had a deep, personal faith in God that sustained him throughout his life. He shared his faith with others as a servant leader. He spent his last days wondering what heaven would be like. He desired to sit beneath the Tree of Life, alongside the river of grace.

Music was a very integral part of his life. He especially loved classical and choral music. He spent his last days listening to Mozart adagios and sacred hymns. They were a balm to his spirit and filled him with peace.

He shared a love with his wife, Carole, of 63 years that was rare, unbreakable, and stood the test of time. He was a father who shaped the hearts of his daughters. He was a grandfather who was loved, admired, and revered. He was a valued friend to many.

He lovingly cared for his family throughout his life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole: two children, Sharon Boyd and her husband Bill, and Deborah Gainer and her husband Joe; plus four grandchildren - Michael and his wife Katie, Sarah, Will, and Kate.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on April 14th at 2pm at Williamsburg Community Chapel, 3899 John Tyler Hwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.