William Andrew Herring

William (Bill) Andrew Herring, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, proud United States Marine, and retired New York City firefighter, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, on the very day he celebrated his 90th birthday.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on October 23, 1936, to Edwin and Margaret (Engel) Herring, Bill lived a full life centered around family, hard work, service, and the things he enjoyed most. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1957, before continuing his commitment to serving others as a New York City firefighter.

He married the love of his life, MaryAnn, on February 8, 1956. Together, they shared nearly 70 years of marriage, building a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories. MaryAnn passed away on June 10, 2025, and Bill carried her love with him throughout the remainder of his life.

Bill proudly served the City of New York as a member of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY), assigned to Ladder 7, from June 1960 until his retirement in March 1991. His nearly 31 years of service reflected his dedication, courage, and commitment to helping others. Following his retirement, Bill and MaryAnn relocated to Brooksville, Florida, in 1991. where they began the next chapter of their lives. For more than three decades, they treasured their summers spent at Lake Adventure in Milford, Pennsylvania, surrounded by extended family and lifelong friends.

Outside of his military and firefighting careers, Bill enjoyed keeping busy and pursuing his many interests. He loved woodworking, enjoyed playing horseshoes and tennis, riding his stationary bicycle, trying his luck at the slot machines at Seminole Hard Rock Casino, and following horse racing. He was also a devoted New York sports fan, cheering on the Jets, Mets, and Rangers. One of his favorite ways to spend time was relaxing in front of the television, watching his favorite teams with a cold beer or a Jack Daniel's on the rocks. Those simple pleasures were some of the things that made him happiest.

Above all, Bill's family was the most important part of his life. He is survived by his children, Peggy and her husband Robert; Doreen and her husband Ken; William and his husband James; and Stephen and his partner Heidi. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter Dolores, as well as his brothers Edwin and James.

He also leaves behind a loving legacy of nine grandchildren: Robbie, Christy, Michael, Joseph, Karyn, Laura, Tracy, Ashlyn, and Jessica; and eight great-grandchildren: Liv, Linnéa, Robert, Ryan, Cameron, Lukas, Aly, and Maddie.

Bill will be lovingly remembered for his service to his country, his dedication to the FDNY, his love of sports, his many interests, and, most importantly, the family he and MaryAnn built together. His life spanned nine decades, and his legacy will live on through the generations who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In accordance with Bill and MaryAnn's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Both were cremated, and it is comforting to know they will one day be laid to rest together at a future graveside memorial.