William J Usher Jr

William J. Usher Jr., age 78, passed away on February 13, 2026, in Bluffton, South Carolina. Born on February 5, 1948, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, Bill lived a life marked by dedication, creativity, and compassion.

He was raised on the south side of Chicago as one of thirteen children of William J. Usher Sr. and Mary Ann Usher. Summers at the family cottage on The Island in Kansasville, Wisconsin, became treasured memories that nurtured his love for nature and family.

Bill attended St. Margaret’s School and DeLaSalle High School before pursuing higher education at Lewis University and John Marshall Law School. He later earned his teaching degree from University of Wisconsin Parkside College. His career path was diverse—beginning as a pipefitter and welder at Arthur J Usher & Sons, before transitioning to education and athletics. He was a tennis instructor. He was also a history teacher at Hilton Head School, he was honored with the Teacher of the Year award, a testament to his dedication and ability to inspire.

A talented musician, Bill played guitar and piano with joy and ease. He was also an avid golfer and tennis enthusiast who found both peace and exhilaration in sports. His love for animals led him to own and operate Bluffton Pet Care Business, where he extended his gentle spirit to the care of pets.

Bill found his greatest joy in fatherhood. The birth of his son, William Owen Usher, brought him unconditional love and joy that remained with him in everything he did.

He is survived by his son William Owen Usher; siblings Dorothy Leavy; Art; Suzy; Carol Wilcox (Chris Beardsley); Tina (Lorraine); Donna Durso; Ginny (Mike) Molinari; Michael; Joan (Ed) Murrell; Pat; and Paul (Wendy); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Bunny.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Mike and Ginny Richbourgh and the many unmentioned others for their steadfast support during Bill’s health journey.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.