William Hesketh, 88, of Vandergrift, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2024, with his family by his side. Bill was born on March 7, 1936, and was the son of the late Clarence "Fuzzy" and Gertrude "Myrl" Sowers Hesketh. He was a graduate of Vandergrift High School and a guard on the football team. As a United States Navy Veteran with the rank of Fire Control Technician Third Class, Bill took immense pride in his service. He nearly sailed around the entire globe, leaving only 7,000 miles unexplored, a testament to his dedication and adventurous spirit. Bill retired as a Test Engineer from Alcoa in 1993. He was a proud member of the Victorian Vandergrift Museum and Historical Society and a loving husband, dad, and grandad. He cherished sitting on his front porch and watching birds with his wife. They traveled extensively after his early retirement, visiting all 50 states in his lifetime. He frequently visited local businesses for coffee, catching up, and spreading local community news; sometimes he even took family with him. Most importantly he loved spending time with family, visiting no matter where they lived, and keeping his home open for their visits. A devoted member of the Pleasant View Brethren Church of Kepple Hill, Bill taught Sunday school, led the Senior Youth program, was a counselor at church camp, was very involved in the Layman's program, and served as a deacon. Holidays were special for Bill and his wife, as they lovingly decorated their home and prepared meals to bring their family together.

Bill is survived by his three sons: Billy (Norene) Hesketh, Ray (Ellen) Hesketh, and Don (Denise) Hesketh; his daughter, Ritha (Bob) McLaughlin; a sister, Cookie (Larry) Harnish of Vandergrift; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his wife and soulmate for 67 years, Ruth Hesketh, and his four brothers: Gene, Don, Jerry, and Rick Hesketh.

Family and friends will be received for a visitation on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm at the Pleasant View Brethren Church, 1156 Pleasant View Dr. Vandergrift, PA 15690 with Pastor Todd Ruggles officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pleasant View Brethren Church or the Victorian Vandergrift Museum and Historical Society. Arrangements are entrusted to the Janette L. Gamble Funeral Home Inc. Online condolences may be made at gamblefh.com.