William "Bill" Manuel Gearhart

William "Bill" Manuel Gearhart, age 81, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at UVA Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bill was born on June 6, 1944, in Ohio to his beloved parents, Mary Louise McIntire and Manuel Harrison Gearhart. From an early age, he carried with him the values of hard work, dedication, and deep devotion to family that would define his life.

Bill was a hardworking and dedicated man who always sought to provide the best life possible for his family. Throughout his career, he was primarily employed with Leggett/Belk as a high achieving salesman and later retired from the University of Virginia Medical Center, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Bill found joy in life’s simple and beautiful moments. He had a deep love for gardening, patiently tending to his plants and taking pride in watching them flourish. The beach was one of his favorite places, where he enjoyed the calming sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun. He also loved cruising, embracing both adventure and relaxation as he explored new places. An avid fisherman, William treasured time spent on the water, casting a line and embracing the peace and quiet it brought him.

Above all else, Bill’s greatest treasure was his family. He is survived by his siblings, Janet Savage; Betty Bunker (preceded in death by her husband, Robert Bunker); Rose Lawton and husband Donald Lawton; and Meraldine Persinger. He was preceded in death by his brother, Sanford Gearhart, and sister-in-law, Nancy Gearhart.

He is also survived by his devoted wife, Susan Gearhart; his sons, Joshua Manuel Gearhart and wife, Kaitlin Rebecca Gearhart, and Jacob Samuel Gearhart and fiancée, Mackenzie Tabor Hargrave; and his two cherished grandchildren, Ella Rose Gearhart and Jack Bennett Gearhart, along with many beloved nieces and nephews, and his adored dog Sophie.

His love, guidance, and steady presence will live on in each of them.

A memorial viewing will be held on Tuesday, March 3, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Teague Funeral Home in Charlottesville. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Bill’s life and legacy.

Bill will be remembered for his quiet strength, kind heart, and unwavering love for those closest to him.

Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire all who knew him.