Obituary of William B. Wise

William B. Wise better known as “Bland” to his family members was born in Hempstead, New York on November 17, 1938, he was preceded in death by Isiah and Hattie Wise and his oldest brother Emmett Smith. He peacefully transitioned from an extraordinary and fulfilling life on September 13, 2024.

Bland’s early life was spent in Hempstead, NY. His early educational years began at Prospect Street School. He attended Hempstead High School where he played the drums in the band and was a member of the Football Team. During high school, he met his high school sweetheart and soulmate Barbara Wise, who later became his wife of 62 years when they formed a union of marriage on November 29, 1959. From the marriage they had two lovely daughters Sherri Johnson and Wendy Wise Whitfield, who excelled professionally and spiritually cherishing and honoring their parents each and every day of their lives. The Wise family first resided in Hempstead, NY and later moved to Westbury, NY.

As a young family man, Bill was a true entrepreneur and continued this passion throughout his life. On a typical Friday evening, he and his wife would host parties and holiday gatherings at their home. They were exceptional hosts where their guests enjoyed their company. He enjoyed golfing, watching the news, action movies and crime dramas as well as watching basketball and football games. He was very social in various circles, he was dedicated to attending Village Trustee meetings, this was his passion. He was a visionary that was instrumental to the planning of the Westbury architecture and development. He loved bragging and spending time with his three grandchildren. He got a rush when he heard ihs grandchildren compete oratorically and would often praise them for their talents. It was apparent that herelished having afternoon or evening dinner dates with his eldest grandson, grooming him in his business circles. He regularly enjoyed spending time with his sisters and brother at family and social events.

William’s last employment position was as a Trustee for the Village of Westbury, New York; where he served for Westbury for 40 years. Board Member, Nassau Guardians Association: Board of Directors and support service for youth in the One Hundred Black Men of Long Island, Inc.; Consultant, Career Training for Skills Technology and Occupational Enhancement; Executive Board Member, National Organization of Black Law Enforcement. Retired Deputy Sheriff of Nassau County Sheriff’s Office in which he was instrumental in starting several programs ie. GED Program, Printing Shop Programs, and Reading Literacy Program; Board of Directors, Parkview Day Care Center; Advisor, Career Institute of Nassau CountyWilliam furthered his education with an associate degree, Cum Laude Nassau Community College. B.S. Degree in Sociology from Adelphi University; Master’s in public administration from C.W. Post College. His Professional Achievements included being a: Lifetime Member of the NAACP of Westbury; Humanitarian Award by the March of Dimes; Urban League Award; Vice Chairman Nassau County Assessment Commission; Past Master, Zion Lodge #76, Member, Past President Bethpage, NY Rotary Club; Lifelong Member Union Baptist Church; Member, Big Brothers and Sisters of Nassau County; Union Management and Labor Relations Specialist, District 65; Labor Mediator and Employment Consultant, Local#6; Board Commissioner, Planning & Urban Development, Village of Westbury; National Alliance of Business Specialized Services for Veterans.

He is survived by his (predeceased) wife Barbara Wise; two daughters Sherri Johnson and Wendy Wise Whitfield (Derrick); three grandchildren Royce Johnson, Delano Whitfield, and Dior Whitfield; brother Emmett Smith (predeceased), brother Sylvester Wise; sisters Valerie Wise and Cynthia Wise-Wilcox; and a host of nieces and nephews, grand nephews, and cousins. We want to recognize the Williams Family, Erving Family, Smith Family, Wise-Wilcox Family, Whitfield Family, Johnson Family, Bates Family, Hughes Family, Gibson Family, Sampson Family, Brown Family, Bradley Family and Jones Family and Halliburton Family.

Bill will truly be missed because of his stretch and impact on individuals across the country. His family and public loved him and he loved his family and the public.

We will forever love you Daddy,
Love your Daughters