William Gerald Land

William was born on April 2, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, to Ida Lois Louviere and her husband, John William Land. He was raised in Dallas and graduated from Jesuit College Preparatory School in 1959, playing in the band and receiving the Linz Pin Award all four years for academic achievement. Jesuit helped William develop the discipline and determination that would guide him throughout his life.

He built a successful career in finance and banking, rising steadily through the corporate ranks with dedication and perseverance. Later, he established a second career in auto leasing, combining his finance skills with his lifelong love of cars.

William was a man of many passions. He loved fishing, golfing, and hunting, often sharing those pursuits with his sons. He passed along his love of the outdoors by teaching his daughter how to fish and shoot. He had a gift for music and could play the piano by ear, often hearing a song on the radio and returning home able to play it himself. He enjoyed many styles of music which remained a constant joy in his life.

He took pride in keeping a beautiful home and yard, blessed with a true green thumb and a standard of excellence that showed in everything he touched. He was always impeccably dressed, disciplined in his routines, and famously up each morning at 5 a.m.

In addition to his family William loved animals and cherished his many dogs over the years, including a beloved poodle and boxer, and later a rescued older collie who became a dear companion.

He was known for being incredibly funny and witty, with a stubborn streak and at times a gruff exterior that those closest to him understood well. Yet in his later years, especially through illness, he showed tremendous grace, humility, kindness, and gentleness.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Katherine Land; his brother John Thomas Land, his son, Christopher Gerald Land; and other loved ones gone before him.

He is survived by his sons, Michael Gerald Land (Michelle) and Gregory Thomas Land (Julie), and their mother, Laura Land; his daughter, Katherine Charé Land; his grandchildren Emily Land, Megan Land, Vivienne Land, Audrey Land, Ethan Rankin and Olivia Rankin; his nephews Stephen David Land (Stephanie) and Robert Gerald Land (Dixie); as well as extended family and many who loved him.

William Gerald Land lived fully, worked hard, loved deeply, and leaves behind memories of laughter, strength, music, and unwavering devotion to family. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.