William Edward Battista, dedicated to community
William Battista of Millsboro passed away Friday, March 20, 2026. Born in Philadelphia, Pa., in April 1941, he grew up in Delaware County. Bill lived a life defined by service and leadership. After graduating Upper Darby High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and was stationed on Staten Island. His last assignment was at Indian River Bay to help with the cleanup after the storms in 1963.
After leaving the Coast Guard, he returned to Delaware County. He started to raise his family and worked for the American Sterilizer Company, eventually becoming a service manager. Bill started his time in the fire service as a volunteer firefighter at Collingdale Fire Company, where he served until moving to Berks County, Pa. There he served as fire chief of the Community Fire Company of Virginville for 29 years. He earned the respect and admiration of fellow firefighters and community members alike. Bill was also a member of the original Hazardous Materials Team in Reading.
In 2012, Bill moved to Delaware to be closer to the ocean. He continued his volunteer work, but now in different ventures. The Lightship Overfalls in Lewes provided the opportunity to help preserve an important piece of coastal history. Bill became a member of the “dirty hands gang,” which is the group that maintains the lightship. He also became a member of the Overfalls Foundation board of directors, including time as its president. Another local organization where he volunteered was MERR, the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute. He also helped in different capacities at churches near where he lived.
He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Battista; his daughters, Patricia Singleton, Deborah McDermott, Dianne Williams and Christine Demattia; and his sons, William J. Battista and Donald Battista. There are 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Francis Battista and Donna Goodwin. Bill will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and leader whose legacy of service and strength will live on in all who knew him.
There will be a brief service at 1 p.m., Monday, April 13, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Berks County.
