Sherill "Bill" Wayne Billingsley

S. W. “Bill” Billingsley passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, in Olney, MD, following a brief illness, just days shy of his 86th birthday. A longtime resident of Brookeville, MD, Bill was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, cherished friend, and beloved life partner. His family was his greatest joy.

A world-renowned expert in magnetics engineering, Bill made groundbreaking contributions to the field. Over his distinguished career, he worked with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC), NOAA, and Billingsley Magnetics/Aerospace. His designs profoundly impacted satellite technology, enhanced military defense systems that protect troops, aircraft, submarines, ships, and harbors, and further geophysical exploration and magnetic silencing facilities worldwide.

Born in Vandalia, IL, on March 25, 1939, Bill was the third of six children. His family lived in various locations across the United States and Canada. Still, he always considered Casper, WY, his hometown— where he built lifelong friendships and experienced his most cherished adventures.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Eva Billingsley Wakefield (Mike); son, Patrick Billingsley (Linda); granddaughter, Jessica Bland; grandsons, Kevin Douglas (Danielle), John Billingsley, Nicholas Billingsley, and Christopher Wakefield (Eryn); and six great-grandchildren: Sophia and Emery Bland, Evelyn and Lena Douglas, and Aspen and Carson Wakefield. He also leaves behind his devoted life partner, Karin Atala.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lewie and Christine Billingsley, and his siblings: Mary Anne Richards, Yuvonne Warshauer, Carolyn Cockle, Rodger Billingsley, and the Honorable Judge Stanley Billingsley. Known as "Wayne" in his youth, Bill attended St. John’s Military School in Salina, KS, before serving in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Hornet and in Kamiseya, Japan. His engineering career began at Telefunken Laboratories in Konstanz, Germany, an experience he treasured. After returning to the U.S., he attended the University of Maryland, balancing his studies with his work at NASA GSFC during the historic Apollo missions, all while raising a young family. His drive and dedication were unmatched.

Bill was indeed a Renaissance man. A passionate traveler, he learned and spoke the languages of the places he visited. He was fluent in German and conversant in Spanish, Japanese, and other languages. He was also an avid skier, sharing his love of the sport with his son Patrick, and a dedicated sailor, spending countless weekends navigating the Chesapeake Bay. He often sailed solo, finding joy in the solitude and the sounds of classical music. Bill was also a motorcycle enthusiast, cherishing memories of riding with Eva and embarking on a cross-country journey to Wyoming and Yellowstone with family and friends.

A lifelong learner and self-taught polymath, Bill mastered precision machining in his later years and even built his own telescopes, grinding and polishing the optics himself. His curiosity and intellect knew no bounds.

Bill was brilliant, humble, and full of humor and charm. His accomplishments were extraordinary, yet he never sought recognition—though those who knew him would certainly disagree with his modesty.

The family’s loss is profound, and they are so thankful for his life. There will never be another like him. His passing leaves an immeasurable void, but his legacy in science and engineering and the lives he touched will endure. The family is profoundly grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and cherished memories shared by friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Your kindness has been heartfelt and very meaningful.

Bill will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held to honor his remarkable journey.

Bill’s Celebration of Life

April 6, 2025

Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department

The Oak Room

17921 Brooke Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860

12:00 pm - Gathering of Friends and Loved Ones

12:30 pm – A Time of Remembrance and Celebration

1:15 pm – Food, Drinks and Socializing

If you wish to attend and in need of any assistance – transportation, lodging, etc.; please contact Eva. It will be a pleasure to assist.

The Oak Room is fully handicapped accessible.