William Pemberton

July 4, 1942 – October 28, 2025

William “Bill” Lester Pemberton, 83, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

Born on July 4, 1942, Bill took quiet pride in sharing his birthday with the nation’s Independence Day—a reflection of his independent spirit and lifelong curiosity. A talented engineer, Bill devoted his career to developing aviation training modules, work that helped advance safety and innovation in the field he loved. Over the years, he contributed his expertise at NASA, Control Data, Quintron, NLX, Lockheed Martin, Rockwell Collins, and Dynatech.

Beyond his professional life, Bill found great joy in his community and the outdoors. During his years in Fairfax, Virginia, he coached the Vienna Little League Colts for several seasons and served on the Board of the Vienna Little League organization. His steady guidance and encouragement left a lasting mark on countless young players and their families.

An avid outdoorsman, Bill enjoyed fishing, bow hunting, and duck hunting—often spending peaceful weekends on a friend’s farm, sharing stories and laughter between early mornings and quiet afternoons by the water.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Janice Pemberton (née Hosmer); his sister, MaryAnn McGowan; his sons, Brian (Jennifer) and Keith; and his beloved grandchildren, Blake and Reagan, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Jane Pemberton Keeney (née McKinney) and father, Lester (Lec) Pemberton and stepfather Earl Keeney.

Known for his calm demeanor, sharp wit, and unwavering love for his family, Bill was a man of steady purpose and quiet strength. He found joy in the simple things—time with family, a good project to tinker with, and the satisfaction that comes with a job well done.

A small graveside service will be held to celebrate his life at Columbia Gardens in Arlington, VA on Saturday, November 15 at 11 AM.

In lieu of, flowers, contributions may be made to the Vienna Little League Organization https://givebutter.com/vlldonations, in Bill’s honor.