William Phillip Gaskins
June 22, 1958 – August 25, 2026
William Phillip Gaskins was born June 22, 1958, in Washington, D.C., to William E. Gaskins and Shirley A. Gaskins. On August 25, 2026, Bill entered eternal rest in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by love and with his wife of 41 years, Lisa, by his side. He was 68 years old.
Known as "Lil' Willie" or "Way-Yay" to his family and "Bill" professionally, William was the fourth of six children. He was educated in Washington, D.C. and received his diploma from Largo High School in 1977. After completing secretarial school in Fredericksburg, Virginia, he began a federal career spanning more than 20 years, first with the Census Bureau and later as an Administrative Officer with the Department of Education, where he retired early due to injury. Beyond his regular duties, he assisted with computer repairs and served as an employee advocate and sign language interpreter.
In retirement, William rededicated his life to the Lord and was baptized at First Baptist Church of Glenarden in 2018. He served as Editor of "The Oriole Post," the Oriole Historical Society newsletter, for 20 years.
William loved the outdoors — traveling and hiking with Lisa, fishing on his boat, and photographing clouds. He studied history, read widely, played chess and spades, gamed with his children, listened to jazz, R&B, and 90s rap, and collected model and antique cars. No matter where he went, he never met a stranger.
Above all, nothing mattered more to William than Lisa and his family.
He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Lisa; his five children, Taushua, Michael, Octavia, Tammara, and William "Von"; 17 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren; his mother, Shirley Gaskins; his sister, Laura; his brothers Edwin, Wendell, and Michael; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, William E. Gaskins, and his brother, Carleton.
Though his earthly journey has come to an end, William's love, laughter, wisdom, and memories live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
