William Henry Shurm died peacefully on February 10th, 2023. Bill lived a full life of devotion to those he loved, civic service and responsibility. He was a great man who was loved by his family and friends.
Born on August 11, 1945 in the rural community of Varina, Virginia just outside of Richmond, Bill learned from an early age that hard work and dedication gave him a sense of independence and fulfillment. During his adolescent years he worked a number of odd jobs that set in motion a strong work ethic he carried throughout his life. An eighth grade shop teacher, Mr. Hugh Palmer, made a lifelong impression by helping Bill believe in himself and realize his potential.
After graduating from Varina High School, he attended Virginia Commonwealth University, working for a trucking company loading freight to cover his entire tuition and living expenses.
Following an enlistment in the Army Reserves serving as a specialty dental medic, Bill joined the Hartford Insurance company working in both Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He was transferred to Orlando, Florida in 1971 with the Hartford Group. He earned a Masters in Finance and Business Administration from Rollins College. He established Hamilton, Shurm &
Gray, a retirement planning firm. Eventually, Hamilton, Shurm & Gray merged with a firm in Jacksonville forming Pencor, Inc where Bill was President and CEO until his retirement.
In 1992, Bill and Diane O’Brien Shurm married, happily blending their families. Bill was a devoted and loving dad to Katie, Brooke, Kelly, Kevin and all the grandchildren. Bill and Diane traveled to all fifty states together and made special memories along the great American highways especially Route 66. They enjoyed many years supporting Keystone Little League together watching their grandsons grow on and off the field.
Bill felt a deep sense of civic responsibility and dedicated himself to many organizations in Central Florida. He was president of the Maitland Rotary Club from 1988-89 and was recognized with the Paul Harris Fellowship which honors individuals for their generous and ongoing support. In 1996, Bill was one of the founders of The Maitland Men’s Club and its sister organization Christmas for Children which realized his passion for helping children in need. He
was honored with the James G Houser Distinguished Service award for his dedication to helping others. Bill and Diane were a great team, along with the other MMC members and their wives, making sure children celebrated Christmas under any circumstances.
Bill’s life was a happy one and when he was diagnosed with cancer he tackled it bravely, conquering it and going on to live healthily for many years. When he and Diane weren’t spending time with the family or traveling, he was golfing, woodworking or playing with his beloved beagles Lucy and Penny. Family and friends know Bill’s legacy continues through his three favorite Bs- BBQ, bourbon, and beagles.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 31 years Diane. Daughters Brooke Poquadeck, Kati Reekie (Scott), Kelly Christy (Rob) and son Kevin O’Brien (Liz), and grandchildren Bobby Christy, Carter Christy, Payton Christy, Karsyn Reekie, Griffin Reekie, Austin O’Brien, Ali O’Brien, and Colin O’Brien.