William Henry Draper III

William “Bill” Henry Draper III of Springfield, VA, passed away peacefully with family by his side at the age of 90, on July 4, 2026, in Leesburg, VA. He was born in Ashton, RI, to William Henry II and Alice Draper on September 15, 1935.

Bill lived a life rooted in unconditional love and strength for his family and duty to his country. Following his high school graduation at age 16, he entered military service with the U.S. Army soon thereafter. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving honorably in the U.S. Army Signal Corps, Airborne, and Special Forces. During his service, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal. After 20 years of active duty, he retired as a Chief Warrant Officer W4. He followed his active duty by serving in the Army Reserves. Following his distinguished Army career, he worked at De Leuw, Cather, and Parsons as an engineering document controller and asset manager. He retired in 2006.

Bill married the love of his life, Carolyn (McCann), on June 9, 1961. He was also affectionately known as “Pop Pop” by friends and family. He loved fishing, hunting, and trapping while growing up in Rhode Island, and he passed his love of fishing to his son, Bill. Bill and Carolyn also loved the Red Sox and Celtics, rarely missing a game. Often, at home, you would find them reading a book with sports on the TV in the background. Their love of sports extended to cheering on their sons, Bill and Tim, as well as their grandson, Billy, in their schools, athletics and other activities. They were equally passionate about sharing their love of the beach, taking an annual family trip to the Outer Banks, North Carolina, where they always welcomed family and friends to join them.

Bill is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 55 years, Carolyn. He is survived by his brother George, and by his children, William H. IV and Timothy; William IV’s wife, MariaChristina; and his grandson, William H. V.

The Draper Family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Access Care for the compassionate and devoted care of their father and grandfather.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Saint Bernadette’s Catholic Church in Springfield, VA. Burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or the Green Beret Foundation.