Birth date: Apr 12, 1952 Death date: Dec 9, 2025
William (Bill) Jarvis died peacefully with his family at his side on Dec. 9, in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he lived in retirement. He grew up in Syracuse, New York, and spent his college years and career in Upstate New York. He g Read Obituary
Bill participated in the Gleeful Chair, supported by Jewish Family Services, and it was a weekly practice that was a highlight of his last years.
Bill was my step Dad. He met my Mom when I was already an adult, and he and my Mom got married the same year that I did. Bill was incredibly caring and affectionate to my Mom, and I was really happy when she met him! I felt like they were meant for each other in so many ways. He had a mild and easy-mannered way about him that made him game for any adventure my Mom wanted to go on.
He was also a caring grandfather for our kids. When he and my Mom moved to Utah, we were able to spend more time with them. Bill was always excited to see the kids and shared some of the same outdoor passions - camping, fishing and just being outside.
Bill always brought a smile and sense of humor. He is missed by me and the rest of our family. I was fortunate to be there with my Mom when he passed. He was quite peaceful and was surrounded by love.
So sorry for your loss of your partner.
We remember the day Susan and Bill were married, we knew they were perfect together. Sorry to hear Bill passed away Susan. Always loved seeing the pictures of both of you and all the travels and garden fun. What a rich blessing to have had this love and family for both of you.
Jim and Rebecca
So happy Susan and Bill found each other, I knew they were a good match. Sorry to see him go but good years, many travels, and dear friends and family ties have made it worth it all. We love you Susan and family.
My friend Bill was a balanced man of both intellect and kindness. He enjoyed learning things and celebrated passing them on to other curious people. He was an accomplished freshwater fisherman who enjoyed nature and the outdoors.
Bill hoped to be invited to join the June Fishing Club. It would require an admission event that would be judged by the voting members. Bill took on this responsibility with a practiced confidence. He first identified himself as a Chemistry Professor who intended to teach the committee the importance of the Periodic Table. At that moment there were cries from the committee – “OH NO”. But Bill just smiled and then started singing in great voice the entire periodic table too roars and cheers. It was a great moment to remember. What fun!
Bill loved his Susan who shared his future and the wonderful mystery of life. He was a good friend. May he rest in peace.
Bill McCarthy
In Loving Memory of William “Bill” Jarvis
William Jarvis, known to so many simply as Bill, was the kind of person whose presence quietly but unmistakably lifted the people around him. He was a professor at Corning Community College, and I was fortunate to know him for several meaningful years before his retirement. In that time, Bill became not only a colleague, but a mentor, a friend, and a steady source of encouragement.
Bill had a rare gift for teaching. He always seemed to have a chemistry joke ready, often delivered with perfect timing and a spark in his eye. His humor made learning feel lighter and more human, reminding students and colleagues alike that curiosity and joy belong in the classroom just as much as rigor and discipline. He was endlessly patient with students, always available, always willing to explain something one more time, never making anyone feel small for asking questions.
As a mentor, Bill led by example. He approached challenges with optimism and perspective, choosing to see possibilities where others might see obstacles. Conversations with him often ended with a sense of clarity and calm, as though he had quietly reframed the world into something more manageable and hopeful. His outlook on life was bright and generous, rooted in gratitude and a genuine love for what he did.
Bill cared deeply about his college community. He wanted to contribute in positive ways, whether that meant supporting students, participating in events, or simply showing up with kindness and encouragement. He believed in people, and that belief had a way of staying with you long after the conversation ended.
Outside of campus, Bill’s devotion to his wife, Susan Jarvis, was evident and deeply touching. The warmth and respect they shared reflected the same values Bill carried into every part of his life. Knowing Bill and Susan during those years before their retirement was a true gift. They were not just colleagues or neighbors, but dear friends whose generosity of spirit left a lasting impression.
Bill’s legacy lives on in the countless students he helped, the colleagues he encouraged, and the friends who were lucky enough to know him. He reminded us that intellect and kindness belong together, that humor can be a bridge, and that a positive heart can change the tone of an entire room.
He will be remembered with gratitude, affection, and a smile.
I have so many happy memories of “Uncle” Willie coming to visit — often for Christmas or the annual East Syracuse fireworks celebration in July. I remember him as an excellent storyteller; he had the best stories to share of growing up in East Syracuse with his brother Patrick and his cousin (my dad). Laughter and good conversation were a guarantee when he came to town. Of course, being a professor, there was always a mini chemistry lesson thrown into the mix too! Our entire family was thinking of him yesterday on Christmas. We watched his favorite movie, It’s a Wonderful Life, in his honor. May he rest in peace.
Such a kind and enthusiastic man. I’m very sad for his family.
