Eight Bells: Billy Sherman

William Sherman, 85, passed away on October 2, 2021 in Morristown, NJ.

Born 1936 in Totowa, New Jersey, and known to friends as Billy, he had a very colorful career and outlook on life. After his military service in the US Army, Billy became a Master Plumber and proprietor of Sherman Plumbing in Wayne, New Jersey.

He was avid skier and scuba diver but sailing was his zest. His first boat was a cruising charter boat in the BVI in the 1970s, and by the 80s he was the owner of a C&C40 Magic Dragon, which he raced extensively on Long Island Sound and offshore including Marian- Bermuda races of 1985, 1987, and 1989.

One boat was clearly not enough so he bought a C&C 41 in the 1980s and used her for cruising with his family and friends. Billy introduced many to the sport, offshore adventures, and Bermuda. In later years Billy delivered yachts returning from Maine and Bermuda all the while sharing countless jokes, stories, and chili dogs. He was a pleasure to sail with and shared all he knew. A consummate Skipper, crewman, and guy’s guy.

Billy is survived by his loving wife of fifty three years, Ruth (Bischoff) Sherman, his twin brother Henry along with his partner JoAnn Carrara and several nieces and nephews. Billy’s infectious laugh, wit, and charm will be missed by many.

For funeral details, click here.