Richard (Bill) Morrison Wescott passed peacefully October 29, 2019 at the age of 95. He is survived by his sons Richard and Robert Wescott, 3 grandchildren; Maria McDowell, Michael Wescott and Ashly Wescott and 8 great grandchildren; Maggie, Sean and Taryn McDowell, Aiden, Drew, Grant and Chase Wescott and Laila Buldoc.
Bill was born April 24, 1924 in Ossining New York. He served as a US Marine during WWII and took great pride in his service. Bill stayed very active with the VFW in New York City even serving as the Commander of Bronx Post 95 in the 60’s.
In 1946, Bill married his beloved wife Dottie with whom he shared 51 years of marriage. He worked in several of New York City’s high-rise communities as a building manager until 1980 when he and Dottie moved to Florida where he managed Sea Place on Long Boat Key. Retiring in 1987 to Parrish Florida where he became a long time resident of The Gardens.
In retirement, Bill stayed very busy and active in his community participating in parades, dances, Tuesday Coffee, night watch patrols and clubs, even starting a few himself. Bill became well known by neighbors and friends for his tasty confections but mostly his famous baklava. Even the neighborhood pets would look for Bill’s golf cart, as he would keep it well stocked with treats for them too.
In the late 90’s, Bill married his second wife Bettie with whom he spent the better part of the next 15 years traveling the world with trips to places like Tahiti, Spain and Panama Canal. They enjoyed many trips around the Caribbean and other memorable destinations on their numerous cruises.
When Bill was not busy, his favorite pastime was doing something creative or artistic. He began drawing at a very young age and found pleasure in drawing, painting and building models. Some of his artistic treasures were displayed in his home and some he would give to others to enjoy.
Bill’s most recent birthday high lights were a trip he made to Washington DC on the Honor Flight on his 94th birthday and was shared with his son Richard, also a veteran. For his 95th birthday, Bill celebrated with 60-80 of his family, friends and community members with cake and lots of storytelling and memories shared.
Bill said himself that he had a great life. He said, “I’ve had 2 long and happy marriages, 2 great sons, 3 wonderful grandchildren and 8 beautiful great grandchildren. I’ve been blessed. I’m happy with my life.” He was so loved, respected and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of sharing in any part of his life of nearly a century.
Services for Bill will be held at Groover Funeral Home. Viewing Wednesday November 6 from 2-4pm and 6-9pm with services at 8pm.
Burial November 7 at the National Cemetery in Bushnell, Florida at 11am. Celebration of Life at The Gardens Clubhouse from 3-5pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s on his behalf.
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