On July 27, 2025, William “Bill” Ray Mears of Seaford, surrounded by his family, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. Bill was welcomed into the world on July 21, 1944, by his loving parents, Frances Passwaters Mears and Ray Salisbury Mears, and his three year-old brother, Rex.
He was raised on the family farm in Seaford, graduating from Seaford High School and the University of Delaware, majoring in agriculture. After college, Bill returned to the family farm, Ray S. Mears & Sons, where he worked until his retirement.
Bill is survived by his ex-wife and companion Robin Mears; his daughter Susan Linell Mears of California; son William “Bill Jr.” Ray Mears, Jr. of Florida; and brother, Rex L. Mears (wife, Sharon) of Millsboro. Also, surviving him are beloved nieces and nephew, Kimberly Rae Speicher (husband, Dave), Karen Marie Hearn (husband, Jon), and Rex (Chip )L. Mears, Jr. (wife, Nancy). Other close family members in his life include Matthew Lank and fiancé Gabriella Knestaut, Dylan and Sara Sharp, Cooper and Katelyn Hearn, Connor Mears, and Carson Mears. He also loved his grand nieces and nephews, Royce, Finley, Frankie, and Ramsey. Faithful friends include Phil Roberts, Gene Miller, Phil Burtelle, Tom Mulrine, and John Wroten. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by Linda Allen, mother of his children.
Bill lived life his way, unapologetically and with vigor. Family and friends knew he loved them, and they returned the feeling.
He was a passionate fan of the University of Delaware Blue Hens, Alabama Crimson Tide, and Dale Earnhart, rotating his tee shirt collection to reflect his dedication. His other passion was CARS, fast ones, and had many of them over the years, his favorites being his 2007 ZO6 Corvette and a ‘67 Camaro.
Bill had a gift for humor and loved making others laugh, even if some of his expressions contained a bit of shock value. He was the life of every party. Family gatherings around the piano would find him singing loud and proud! When it came to reminiscing about old times on the farm, Bill’s imitations and facial expressions left listeners holding their sides.
Bill’s legacy will live on with his family and friends through the many quips, laughs, and memories that made him unique and special. He will be dearly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill’s memory to the University of Delaware Agriculture Program, 531 S. College Ave., Newark, DE 19716, or Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.
A Celebration of Life for Bill will be held at Willowbrook venue, 8275 Cannon Road in Bridgeville on Aug. 10 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (program starting promptly at 11:30) for anyone wishing to attend.