PHOENIX, Ariz. — William (Bill, Billy, Mr. Nye, The Science Guy) Gore Nye Sr., beloved father, grandfather, friend and partner, passed away on July 11, 2024 at his home in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 82. 

Bill was born on July 21, 1941, in Rockford, IL to Philip Sr. and Mary Kay Gore Nye. He was the proud younger brother to Philip Hastings Nye Jr. Bill graduated from Rochelle Township High School in 1959. He attended the University of Wyoming, graduating in 1963 with a BA in History and a Minor in Political Science.  Bill then served actively in the US Navy as a Lieutenant Junior Grade from 1964 to 1967, completing two tours in Vietnam, and was honorably discharged in 1970.  During his time in service, Bill was stationed on the USS Enterprise and was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with Stars, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the National Defense Service Medal.  After serving his country, Bill attended the University of Colorado School of Law, graduating with a JD degree in 1970.  After passing the bar in Utah, he worked for Worsley, Snow, and Christensen in Salt Lake City.  Bill continued his career working for the First National Bank of Chicago (with which he was transferred to Phoenix), Continental Bank Trust Company, Valley National Bank of Arizona, and the Maricopa County Public Fiduciary. For over forty years, Bill was a faithful member of Valley Presbyterian Church where, over the years, he served as a deacon, taught Sunday School, and assisted other members with transportation to worship services and appointments.

Bill was married to Margaret Ann Wiese on April 11, 1974. He was a loving and dedicated
husband; his support never wavered through their 29-year marriage. Bill was the proud father to four boys, Joseph, William Jr., Peter, and Scott, and grandfather to eight grandchildren. To those he loved, he passed along his passion for the Chicago Cubs, sharks, the great outdoors, aimless road trips, and dressing overly formal for all occasions. Bill’s closest friend and the person he looked up to most was his brother, Phil.  They could sit for hours, recounting humorous memories and ribbing each other endlessly. Their stories were priceless and laughter contagious. Throughout his life, he loved conversing with family, friends, and random strangers on an array of topics including sports, history, and current affairs. Though not always attuned to sarcasm, Bill had a great sense of humor, and loved to laugh and make fun of himself. He was the most genuine, honest, caring, and inquisitive person.  In his honor, please pay these qualities forward.

Bill is survived by his brother, Philip Jr., sons: Joseph, William Jr., Peter, and Scott (Ashley), grandchildren: Mairead, Grace, Joseph Jr., Aoife, John, Brigid, Loyal, and Henry, and his loving partner, Neta Sue Melton.  Bill is predeceased by his spouse, Margaret; mother, Mary Kay; father, Philip Sr.; and stepmother, Lenore.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 10th at Valley Presbyterian Church in Paradise Valley, AZ, and at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Riverview Cemetery in Oregon, IL. Bill’s life was marked by his dedication to his family, his community, and his faith. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to the Phoenix Rescue Mission. Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.