Colonel William H. Donley, 93, of North Sewickley Township, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 3rd, 2025. He was born on February 18th, 1932, and was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Martha, his two sisters, Janet and Linda, and the love of his life, Ruth A. (Troxell) Donley. He is survived by five children: Barry (Amy) of Cambridge, Ohio, Debbie (Clint) LaFever of Lacey, Washington, Neal (Cecilia) of New Stanton, Pennsylvania, Bill of State College, Pennsylvania, and Mark (Carmela) of Raleigh, North Carolina; as well as ten grandchildren: Chad, Matt, Brittany, Cean, Lucas, Nicholas, Lindsey, Nathaniel, Grant and Brooke; along with six great grandchildren, his brother, Donald Donley of Aiken, South Carolina and his brother-in-law, James (Janet) Troxell of Murrysville, Pennsylvania.

William was a proud graduate of Altoona High School. Following his high school graduation, he pursued higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree as a recipient of a scholarship in track and ROTC and later a Master’s degree.  After graduating from Pitt, he started his teaching career at New Brighton High School as a physics teacher.  His passion for education and leadership led him to a career in school administration. He served at New Brighton High School as an Assistant Principal, and later as Principal and Superintendent of the Midland School District, where he was known for his integrity, commitment, and positive influence on students and staff alike.

During this time, he also had a career in the military as a pilot in the Air Force and later in the Air Force reserves.  He served his country honorably in the United States Air Force, retiring with distinction as a Colonel and Base Commander of the 911th Airlift Wing.

He was deeply committed to his Masonic teachings and community. A 33° Mason, he was a proud member and Past Master of Union Lodge #259. He was also a Past Commander in Chief of the New Castle Consistory, where his dedication and leadership were widely respected.

Friends will be received Tuesday, May 6th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton. An additional viewing will be held in Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 819 Washington Avenue, Monaca, on Wednesday, May 7th from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. with his Pastor Angela Smith, officiating.

The Beaver County Special Unit will provide military honors on Wednesday, May 7th, at 11:45 p.m. at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 819 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Private interment will follow in Grandview Cemetery of Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s name to Union Lodge, #259.