William M. "Bill" Jory

He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Ada “Midge” (née Seraphim) and their three children: Megan, Janet (Rory Helgesen) and Peter (Kathleen), and Bill's brother Bob (Diana) along with numerous nieces and nephews. Bill was a proud grandfather to Jeremy Tiemer (Preechaya Iamsila), Graham Zagrodney (Jayne MacKinnon), Josef Zagrodney who predeceased him in 2018, Samantha Jory (Colin DeJersey), and Robin Jory. Great grandson Mikey Tiemer and Bill shared a special relationship.

Born in Sexsmith, Alberta, November 8, 1935, Bill spent his early years in Teepee Creek before moving with his family to the Fraser Valley. At Phillip Sheffield High School, he competed academically with a pretty girl from Clayburn until he was old enough to drive and could ask her out. Bill and Midge attended UBC to obtain their degrees, married in September 1956, and moved to the South Okanagan in 1958 to begin their teaching careers. Bill completed his Masters degree in Education during summers commuting from Oliver to UBC.

Bill went on to serve as a school administrator in Osoyoos and Duncan, before becoming a district superintendent in the North Thompson. In 1988, he returned to the Cowichan Valley, first serving as Deputy Superintendent and later as Superintendent of Schools, retiring from the Cowichan Valley School District in 1993 after a long and distinguished career in public education. Bill always credited Midge for her partnership and support, without which he could not have done what he did. Former colleagues and staff appreciated Bill for his clear judgement, clarity of direction, and kind and respectful interactions. Many remember him as a compassionate, ethical leader and a true gentleman.

In retirement, Bill and Midge expanded their circle of close friends and enjoyed their years together in the Cowichan Valley, engaging in social and service endeavours and travelling during the winter months. Bill contributed his time to the local Probus chapter and the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and he will be remembered fondly by fellow golfers at the Cowichan Golf and Country Club, his bridge partners, and his many friends for his intelligence, humility, gentle wit, and generous spirit.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Duncan United Church.

For those who wish, memorial donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, or Nourish Cowichan (Starfish Program).

The family wishes to thank their many friends and the staff of the local hospital for their kindness and support.