William Edward “Bill” Hyatt, 76, of Lewes, passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, surrounded by love and with his devoted wife by his side, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Pedricktown, N.J., Bill was the son of the late Clarence Paris “CP” and Wilma E. (Knorr) Hyatt. He grew up in Pedricktown/Pennsville, N.J., where he attended Pennsville High School and quickly distinguished himself as a star athlete, excelling as both a starting quarterback and pitcher. He continued his athletic and academic pursuits at Glassboro State College (now Rowan University), graduating in 1972.

True to his nature, Bill was an incredibly humble man who never bragged about his accomplishments. Instead, he was known for his genuine warmth. He would not hesitate to engage anyone – regardless of their background or standing – in conversation, making even passing acquaintances feel valued and remembered.

This profound ability to connect with others translated perfectly into his life’s work. For 37 years, Bill was a beloved teacher, coach and mentor at Washington Township High School in Sewell, N.J He guided thousands of students and athletes, and even taught many young drivers how to safely navigate not just the roadways of New Jersey, but the journey of life itself. His extremely successful 37-year coaching career, combined with his exceptional contributions as a player in high school and college, culminated in a prestigious induction into the Salem County, N.J. Sports Hall of Fame – an honor bestowed upon only 170 individuals since its inception.

As dedicated as he was to his students, Bill was an even better husband, father and grandfather. He shared 48 wonderful years of marriage with his loyal wife, Suzanne. She lovingly cared for him through his most difficult days and remained a steadfast presence until he made his journey to heaven. Bill cherished his family above all else; he was always "there" for his loved ones, his friends, and his players.

Bill’s life was rich with adventure, travel and simple pleasures. He treasured the time spent fishing with his son, Brad, on the Delaware Bay aboard his 17-foot Boston Whaler out of Fortescue, N.J. – a boat he often fondly regretted parting with. He was the ultimate travel partner and the best passenger one could ask for on a road trip. Together with his son, and his two dogs, he explored off the beaten path, visiting 46 states, mostly by car. He was always up for that road trip anytime the military called his son to a new assignment. He also loved taking cruise ship vacations with Suzanne and good friends to various beautiful locations around the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Closer to home, he enjoyed taking day trips “down the shore” to Wildwood Crest, N.J., in the summer and hitting the slopes for ski trips in the Poconos, Pa., and Colorado in the winter.

After moving to Lewes, Delaware, Bill became a dedicated and active member of his new community. He enjoyed volunteering his time at the Beebe Hospital Thrift Store and giving tours on the Lightship Overfalls, proudly sharing the history of one of only nine remaining preserved lightships in the U.S. He also found profound joy in driving out onto the beach at Cape Henlopen to fish, relax, and build sandcastles with his beloved grandson, Bruce. A man of great taste when it came to comfort food, Bill was always ready for a meal at the Lobster House in Cape May, a classic Pancake House, or any authentic Jersey diner of any creed or color. An avid sports enthusiast, he spent his downtime watching ESPN recaps and cheering for his Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles, wearing a memorable, knowing smile during the Eagles' 2018 and 2025 Super Bowl victories. He also fondly recalled the thrill of attending the Alabama-Vanderbilt game with his son in Tuscaloosa in 2006.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne Hyatt of Catawba, N.C., and brothers-in-law, Rick and Stuart Stephens.

He is survived and will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Suzanne (Stephens) Hyatt of Lewes; his son, Brad Hyatt of Crownsville, Md.; his cherished grandson, Bruce; his sister, Carolyn Peachy of Pennsville, N.J.; and his “adopted” son, Michael Entrekin. He also leaves behind his niece, Erin (Hyatt) O’Dell of Hickory, N.C.; his nephews, Jim Hyatt of Catawba, N.C., Christopher Stephens of Port Orange, Fla., and Michael Johnston of Pennsville; in addition to his trusted fur baby, Scoobie, who never left his side.

Bill leaves behind an enduring legacy of kindness, mentorship, and love that will be carried forward by his family, friends, and the countless students whose lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

At his request, there will be no services.

Due to Bill’s love of animals, the family requests that donations be made in Bill’s memory to Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 DuPont Blvd., Georgetown, DE, 19947 at bvspca.org/ways-to-give.