Robert "Bill" Mayberry

Bill was born to Robert and Esther Mayberry on April 3, 1929, in Seattle. He attended Lincoln High School (Class of 47) and enjoyed playing sports. Bill attended WSU where he played both Football and Baseball. While in college Bill met and married his wife of 69 years, Gloria (Gloria Jean Richards). Gloria passed away on August 30, 2019. Bill and Gloria are survived by their three children, Linda Carlyle (Gary), Patti Maxfield (Mark) and Mike Mayberry (Polly), eight grandchildren and seventeen great grandchildren. He talked with pride about all his family.

In addition to playing sports at WSU, Bill was a member of the ROTC program. Upon graduating with a teaching degree in Biology and Physical Education, he was an officer in the Army, and was a member of the 82nd Airborne.

After his Service in the Army, Bill and Gloria moved to Yakima as he began his teaching and coaching career. He taught Biology and Physical Education and coached several sports, including football, baseball, track, and wrestling. From Yakima, he went on to Grandview and Pasco. Bill enjoyed working with High School students as a teacher, but after a few years, he became a high school principal in Onalaska, and then Stevenson. After several years in Stevenson, Bill was hired as Assistant Superintendent for the Tumwater School District. He completed his education career in Ephrata School District as their Superintendent. Following his retirement, he worked for Learning World school supplies, and he and Gloria moved back to the Olympia area where they could be closer to their kids and grandchildren. They built their home at Capitol City Golf Course where they enjoyed golf (especially Bill) and playing Bridge with friends.

The family enjoyed hearing his stories about being an educator and coach. Many times, he expressed how lucky he was to have a great family, good life experiences, and the many people and children he had the privilege of working with. Bill appreciated life and never complained about anything. He mostly enjoyed everything and everybody. Grandpa Bill especially loved watching his grandchildren in their various activities.

His family would like to thank his past students, teachers, and friends for the many positive words. They want to thank his neighbors and caregivers during his last few months.

Bill’s family will be having a private Military Honors service, as well as a private Family Memorial for him.