William Earl Gilding

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of William Earl Gilding on June 2, 2026, at the age of 90. William, affectionately known as Bill, left this world surrounded by the love of his family. Born on November 25, 1935, in Portland, Maine, Bill was the beloved son of Ruth and David Gilding. His brother Victor Gilding predeceased him. Bill shared a remarkable journey of 71 years with his beloved wife, Dorine C. Gilding, who preceded him. Bill is survived by his devoted children: Michael Gilding and partner Divina Lara of Daytona Beach, FL, Mark Gilding and wife Rejeanne Gilding of St. Albans, VT, and Dianne Jacobs and husband Jimmy Jacobs of Derby, VT. His legacy extends through seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. A graduate of St. Johnsbury Academy, Bill embarked on a distinguished career at Passumpsic Savings Bank in St. Johnsbury, VT, where he began working at the tender age of 16. His dedication saw him rise to the position of Vice President, retiring at the age of 58, after establishing a new branch in Newport, VT. Bill's commitment to community service was unparalleled; he served as a Special Police Officer in Newport for 12 years, a Volunteer Firefighter (Assistant Chief) for 25 years, and a founding father of the Newport City Ambulance Service, where he volunteered for 23 years. Bill's passion for public service included serving on the Sacred Heart School Board for 10 years and the Diocesan School Board for 5 years. His contributions to civic life included serving as a Newport City Councilman, with one year as President, and as a Justice of the Peace. He was a respected member of the Vermont Association of County Judges and the National Judges Association, serving as an Assistant Judge from 1996 to 1999. An avid deer hunter, Bill found joy in the great outdoors. He was also known for his love of the microphone, seizing any opportunity to share one of his hundreds of jokes much to the dismay of his wife Dorine, A Graveside Service to honor and celebrate Bill's life will be held on June 13, 2026, at 12:15 PM at St. Edwards Cemetery, 950 Elm St., Derby Line, VT 05830. The family invites those who knew and loved Bill to join them in remembrance and celebration of a life that touched so many. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Newport City Ambulance Service, a cause dear to Bill's heart. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the medical staff at both North Country Hospital in Newport, VT, and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Hanover, NH, for their compassionate care. Bill's legacy of love, laughter, and service will forever echo in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved Dorine, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.