William G. Sidebottom

William George Sidebottom, 77, passed away on Sunday July 27, 2025, at his residence in Staunton. He left behind a legacy of service, intellect, and quiet strength.

He was born on July 21, 1948, in Greeley, Colorado to the late William Carroll and Florence Elaine Krusenstjerna Sidebottom.

Raised in Wichita Falls, Texas, he spent his formative years there and graduated from Rider High School. He was a gifted athlete and excelled in both football and golf and was also a standout in debate forums. He continued his education at Midwestern State University and the University of West Florida, where his talents in the classroom and on the field remained evident.

While at Midwestern, he joined ROTC and, when the Vietnam War escalated, entered Officer Candidate School in Quantico, before joining the United States Marine Corps. He flew missions as a Cobra helicopter pilot in Vietnam and upon his return, he continued to serve as a flight instructor in Pensacola, Florida, and was honorably discharged with the rank of captain.

Following his military service, he earned a master’s in public policy from Regent University and went on to establish his own marketing firm. For nearly four decades, he worked alongside nonprofit organizations, providing strategic services as a constituency communications consultant to causes focused on political and religious liberties.

He was a man of deep personal faith and spiritual conviction, and at the time of his passing was actively pursuing a doctorate in divinity at Wagner University in California. He had a deep love of learning, reflected in his richly curated personal library and his voracious appetite for books.

He was also an avid golfer, a lifelong fan of the Dallas Cowboys, and had an eye for fast and beautiful cars. Yet nothing brought him more joy than his family - especially his grandchildren. He supported them wholeheartedly in all their endeavors, whether academic, athletic, or artistic.

Those who knew him will remember a man who lived with integrity, gave generously without hesitation, and carried himself with a quiet, thoughtful strength. He was a devoted grandfather, a faithful and devoted husband, and a gracious presence in the lives of many.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rosemary Ann Sidebottom; his son, William Jeremiah Sidebottom; his daughter, Faith Ann Sidebottom Schmandt and her husband, Kristopher; his grandchildren, Corban, Ava, Toby, and Vivien Schmandt; his brothers, James Dean and Bradley Alan Sidebottom; and his sister, Christine Sidebottom Brunner.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton with Reverend Greg Cox officiating.

He will be entombed at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.