William H. Mears Jr. ’64

Bill died May 17, 2026, after a brief illness. Born and raised in Richmond, Va., he graduated from Douglas S. Freeman High School, having been editor of the school newspaper and active in sports, dramatics, and student government.  

At Princeton, Bill majored in classics, writing his thesis on “Virgil’s Support of Caesar.” He joined Campus Club and was active in Orange Key, heavyweight crew, the Undergraduate School’s Committee, and the Class Memorial Fund Drive. For five years, he served as class treasurer and since 2011 has been Class of 1964 vice president for advanced planning.  

Following graduation, Bill earned a J.D. at St. John’s University and later an M.S. in accounting and certificate in taxation at Pace University. He began his career in New York City at U.S. Trust Co. and later became a tax partner at Ernst & Young. His last position was at Brown Brothers Harriman Trust, where he was executive vice president and served on the board of trustees.  

Bill and Pate Bevis married in 1997, pursuing their goals and dreams together in the Big Apple. After retirement, they settled in Bill’s hometown of Richmond, where they focused on giving back to their church, colleges, and community. Bill also served on the Richmond Symphony Board, making significant contributions. Always a Virginia gentleman, he was helpful to all he knew. 

The class extends its sincerest condolences to their families.