William Nelson Deere

William (Bill) Nelson Deere 1933-2026

William Nelson Deere of Media, PA, passed away on May 3, 2026, at the age of 92. Bill was the beloved husband of 66 years to Roberta C. (Sandaver) Deere, father to two children, William R. and Timothy A. Deere as well as grandfather to William A. Deere and his wife Shannon, Anne E. Long and her husband Harrison, and Mary C. Deere.

Bill epitomized ‘the silent generation.’ A graduate of Upper Darby High School and Saint Joseph’s College, Bill held a number of professional positions across his work career in the Philadelphia area including with Scott Smith Cadillac and Giles & Ransome. Bill’s success as a husband, father, and professional created the conditions allowing the next two generations of his family to advance personally and professionally. He was especially tender to his youngest son, Timothy, a special needs child. Bill and Tim were often spotted in the Delaware County area out and about on some new adventure. His early encouragement of his oldest son’s interest in politics resulted in his son’s career in the U.S. government and the United Nations. Bill was a lifelong Phillies and Eagles fan and in retirement his kind, gentlemanly manners made him a popular figure in the Holly House community and his ‘second residence,’ the Court Diner. Bill defined the adage, "A righteous person is one who lives for the next generation." 

Family and friends are invited to Bill’s Viewing, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM Friday May 8th at the Rigby, Harting & Hagan Funeral Home 15 E. Fourth Street, Media, with a short service immediately following at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Bill’s memory to Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health or LifePath Foundation.

Arrangements: Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home 
15 E. Fourth St. Media, PA 19063
www.haganfuneralhome.com