William Carston Kercher Jr.

William C. Kercher, Jr, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on February 16, 2026, in Orlando, Florida. Born to William C. and Mary Kercher in Dayton, Ohio on May 17, 1946, he, and his beloved sister Kristin, grew up in Eau Gallie and Indialantic, Florida, during the exciting early days of the space program. After graduating from Melbourne High School in 1964, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Florida State University.

William and his wife Barbara shared the joy of a lifelong devotion of more than 60 years. They were married in Tallahassee in 1967 and soon began building a life together in Orlando, where, with great pride and delight, they raised their children, William III and Hope.

Curious by nature and generous with his knowledge, William believed deeply in lifelong learning. An avid reader and student of presidential history, he relished a good road trip, a memorable meal, and time spent in thoughtful conversation with friends and family. His interests were wide-ranging, from coaching his children’s youth soccer teams to later sharing his love of the classic ’55 Chevy with his grandchildren.

William devoted more than 55 years to urban and regional planning, dedicating his career to strengthening communities throughout Central Florida and beyond. As a partner at Glatting Jackson Kercher Anglin, Inc. for 25 years, he served as a community planning consultant, later focusing on the unique opportunities of small towns and cities. He was especially passionate about connecting local and regional leaders to help create vibrant “Character Towns.” He also served as an advisor to key local institutions supporting the education of future planning professionals and also as a mentor at Fern Creek Elementary School.

He is remembered for his quiet manner and having a “way of seeing the best in all of us.” A thoughtful and supportive mentor and leader, he was also a friend with whom you could think, question, and grow. Generous with encouragement, wisdom, and deep kindness, he left a lasting impression on all who knew him. A well-respected gentleman and scholar, his legacy lives on in the communities he helped shape and the people he mentored and loved.

William is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; his two children, Hope Kercher, William C. Kercher III (Angie); and his cherished grandchildren. He would encourage all who knew him to keep an open mind and always stay curious.

In his memory, donations may be made to his favorite causes: local education funds, public broadcasting, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.