William Rowland Hemsley

William was the son of William R., Sr. and Elizabeth Newton Hemsley. He was born in Philadelphia on January 17, 1931. He never lost his New Jersey accent nor his love for the fresh seafood abundant near the family’s summer home in Stone Harbor.

Bill and the love of his life, Joan O’Donnell, were married in Philadelphia on March 30, 1951. He graduated in 1952 with a BS from Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA. Soon after, he enrolled at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine where he was a member of the Class of 1956. Following graduation, he moved his young family to Southern California where he established a medical family practice. He soon associated with San Bernardino Community Hospital where he served patients for many years. He took post graduate classes in public health at Loma Linda University and later worked a few years for Davita Hospice.

Above all, Bill is remembered as a faithful Christian. He loved teaching Bible classes and praying with people of all ages and backgrounds. For many years he was part of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship. In his later years, he attended the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, CA.

One of his most pronounced qualities was his avid curiosity. From early days in scouting and onward, he could identify most birds and trees throughout the US. “Christmas” was his favorite season - and it could span months! He loved dogs, travel, and bringing together the family for great adventures. He was always surrounded by an eclectic collection of books ranging from theology to biographies, history and poetry. He also loved a wide range of music, art, and exploring museums, national parks and historic places both in the US and abroad. Yosemite was a particularly favorite destination, especially with grandchildren in tow.

Bill and Joan were the parents of eight children: James (Patricia), Martin (Daphne), Beth (Danny), Matthew (Lauri), Janey, Michael (Rita), Charles (Susan), and William B. (Kari). They had 27 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his sister Marguerite Weiss (2000), son Martin (2022), and his wife Joan (2021).