- December 4, 2025
William Percy “Bill” Day, 86, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025, in Silver Spring, Maryland, surrounded by his loving family. Known for his radiant smile and warm, welcoming personality, Bill leaves behind a legacy marked by kindness, perseverance, and devotion to those he loved.
Born in Washington, DC, on December 5, 1938, Bill grew up in the heart of the nation’s capital alongside his sister, Sammie, and brother Donald. As their parents were Catholic, the family attended the nearby Saint Vincent DePaul Church. Bill was a talented athlete who competed in sports throughout his lifetime. He excelled in football and basketball and, as a young adult, coached Little League baseball.
During 1954, Bill’s journey took him from his DC roots to Chicago, where he embraced new opportunities and began building the life he dreamed of. After a brief stint in the army, he married his high school sweetheart, Shirley James. The couple was blessed with a daughter, Terri, and a son, Darren. Tragically, both children preceded William in death, but fortunately, the couple was blessed with seven loving grandchildren: Mary, Samantha, Dylan, Donovan, Trinity, (Michael) Ryan, and Payton.
Bill’s professional journey began with a vision he shared with a friend and fellow postman. Drawing on an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded J&D Uniforms, steering the business toward great success. His work provided for his family and offered a lasting example of the rewards of hard work and determination, especially to young people living in southside Chicago.
Bill and Shirley spent their retirement years in Palm Coast, Florida, where they built their dream home. There, they attended Palm Coast Methodist Church and shared their faith with family and friends. Bill’s passion for sports continued as he became an avid golfer, enjoying the camaraderie and competition the game offered. He and Shirley frequently enjoyed trips to New York for the US Open as well as many other opportunities to travel.
Recently, after experiencing serious health problems, Bill and Shirley moved to suburban Maryland to receive the love, help, and support of nearby family. In addition to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Bill is survived by Shirley, his wife of sixty-four years, his sister Sammie (Day) Parrish, brother Donald (Carol) Day, daughter-in-law, Tawanna Wright-Day, nieces Dr. Kimberly (Carlton) Arrendell, Tristen Day, and Michelle Day.
A memorial service and mass celebrating Bill’s life will be held on Monday, August 11, at 9:00 a.m. at Saint Vincent de Paul Church on M Street S.E. in Washington, D.C., with a reception to follow at CIRCA at Navy Yard. Family and friends are invited to remember and honor Bill’s life.
