William "Bill" Nee

William "Bill" Nee passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, surrounded by love. He has returned home to be with his Lord, God, and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Born on Friday, November 13th, Bill lived life to the fullest for 88 years. A proud graduate of Norfolk Catholic High School, Bill went on to pursue higher education at Belmont Abbey College before transferring to Virginia Tech. He took a break after his second year to work and save money for his studies, but his plans changed when he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Bill served as a high-speed radio operator and was part of the #1 STRAC unit in the United States. In a twist of fate, President Kennedy granted Bill an early discharge, just as his unit was preparing for deployment to Vietnam.
In 1962, Bill married Patricia "Patsy" Davis of California, Pennsylvania and enjoyed almost 63 years of marriage and life together. They had three sons: Bill Jr. (Joanne), Chris (Julie), and their late son, Rick (Richard Michael), who preceded him in death in 2015. Bill was also a proud grandfather to Matthew, Caitlyn, and Ryan.
Bill's career in the corporate world began with American Greetings Corporation, where he worked for over twenty years. He rose through the ranks to become the Regional Director of Operations for the Middle Atlantic States, which required him to leave his beloved home and friends in Crofton, Maryland, and relocate to Virginia Beach, Virginia. Shortly thereafter, Bill followed his entrepreneurial spirit and founded Norfolk-based Preferred Direct Marketing Services. His sons Bill Jr. and Chris now carry on the legacy of the family business.
Bill's family was his greatest treasure. His legacy will continue to live on through his children, grandchildren, and the countless lives he touched with his generosity, work ethic, and deep faith.
The family asks that you please keep Bill and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this time.
A viewing will be held on Friday February 28 from 10-11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 a.m., at Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, 1000 E City Hall Ave, Norfolk, VA 23504.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation would be deeply appreciated.