Dr. William Bernard Stewart Grossman
Bill left this earthly world on October 22, 2016 unexpectedly from heart failure at Blake Medical Center, Bradenton, Florida.
Bill was born on February 2, 1941 to Marion Roberta Williamson Grossman and William Bernard Grossman Sr. in Grahamsville, New York. He was raised in a faith-based family, his grandfathers and father were ministers. He was the eldest of four siblings. Raised in upstate New York, he graduated from high school in Kingston, NY. Bill graduated from Wesleyan University in 1964.
He was called to follow in his families' footsteps and became a minister in the United Methodist Church. Bill received his Master of Divinity degree in 1968 and his Doctor of Ministry in 1982; both from Drew University.
Bill devoted his life to serving God and touched the lives of many with his ministry. He served as pastor of Millbrook Methodist, Scio, Friendship, Allentown churches, and Harvey Memorial Community Church, Bradenton Beach Florida. He was also senior pastor of First United Methodist Church Jamestown, Williamsville United Methodist Church, United Church of Livonia, and Longboat Island Chapel, Longboat Key Florida. He was founding pastor of St Andrew's United Methodist Church, Amherst NY. He returned from retirement to become interim pastor of DeWitt Community Church Dewitt, NY, Roser Memorial Church, and Marcellus First Presbyterian Church NY. He held many leadership board positions within the United Methodist Church, later becoming president of the International Council of Community Churches Ministerium 2005-2008.
He retired September 30, 2014. Bill was very active in Rotary International, having been a member for 48 continuous years; including serving as District Governor in District 7020. Bill served as Allegany County (NY) legislator, and supervisor of Town of Livonia and County of Livingston, NY, board of trustees member and president, Livonia Central School. President and director of ROMAH (Rehabilitation of Men and Housing) in Jamestown NY, his enthusiastic interest in social policy was ever present. Bill loved playing trombone, and was active in many community bands.
On April 4, 1981 he began a new chapter in his life marrying Laura Allene Stewart Grossman. Together they shared life, ministry and family. Predeceased by his parents and his niece Cassandra Hunter. Bill is survived by his wife Laura Allene Stewart; his three children Kimberly D. Blake (Timothy), Dawn G. Durow (Michael), William B. Grossman III (Rebecca); his two step-daughters Laura R. Shone and Martha C. Pollard, grandchildren; Andrew (Sherrie) Jeff (Alysia), Kristen, Sean, Edward, William, Maggie, and David as well 5 great grandchildren; his siblings Linda Hunter (John), Diane Barstow (Wade), Alan Grossman (Jane) and many nieces and nephews. Brother and sister in law are Larry Cox (Zella) and Carolyn George.
A celebration of Bill's life is planned for Sunday November 13 at 11:30 am at Harvey Memorial Community Church, Bradenton Beach, Florida. On Saturday November 26, there will be a memorial service in Marcellus, New York at Marcellus First Presbyterian Church at 2 pm, followed by a brief reception. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.
Bradenton (FL) Herald