William "Bill" Henry Shurm died peacefully on February 10th, 2023. Bill lived a full life of
devotion to those he loved, civic service and responsibility. He was a great man who was loved
by his family and friends.
Born on August 11, 1945 in the rural community of Varina, Virginia just outside of Richmond, Bill
learned from an early age that hard work and dedication gave him a sense of independence and
fulfillment. During his adolescent years he worked a number of odd jobs that set in motion a
strong work ethic he carried throughout his life. An eighth grade shop teacher, Mr. Hugh
Palmer, made a lifelong impression by helping Bill believe in himself and realize his potential.
After graduating from Varina High School, he attended Virginia Commonwealth University,
working for a trucking company loading freight to cover his entire tuition and living expenses.
Following an enlistment in the Army Reserves serving as a specialty dental medic, Bill joined
the Hartford Insurance company working in both Philadelphia and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He
was transferred to Orlando, Florida in 1971 with the Hartford Group. He earned a Masters in
Finance and Business Administration from Rollins College. He established Hamilton, Shurm &
Gray, a retirement planning firm. Eventually, Hamilton, Shurm & Gray merged with a firm in
Jacksonville forming Pencor, Inc where Bill was President and CEO until his retirement.
In 1992, Bill and Diane O'Brien Shurm married, happily blending their families. Bill was a
devoted and loving dad to Katie, Brooke, Kelly, Kevin and all the grandchildren. Bill and Diane
traveled to all fifty states together and made special memories along the great American
highways especially Route 66. They enjoyed many years supporting Keystone Little League
together watching their grandsons grow on and off the field.
Bill felt a deep sense of civic responsibility and dedicated himself to many organizations in
Central Florida. He was president of the Maitland Rotary Club from 1988-89 and was
recognized with the Paul Harris Fellowship which honors individuals for their generous and
ongoing support. In 1996, Bill was one of the founders of The Maitland Men's Club and its sister
organization Christmas for Children which realized his passion for helping children in need. He
was honored with the James G Houser Distinguished Service award for his dedication to
helping others. Bill and Diane were a great team, along with the other MMC members and their
wives, making sure children celebrated Christmas under any circumstances.
Bill's life was a happy one and when he was diagnosed with cancer he tackled it bravely,
conquering it and going on to live healthily for many years. When he and Diane weren't
spending time with the family or traveling, he was golfing, woodworking or playing with his
beloved beagles Lucy and Penny. Family and friends know Bill's legacy continues through his
three favorite Bs- BBQ, bourbon, and beagles.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 31 years Diane. Daughters Brooke Poquadeck, Kati Reekie
(Scott), Kelly Christy (Rob) and son Kevin O'Brien (Liz), and grandchildren Bobby Christy,
Carter Christy, Payton Christy, Karsyn Reekie, Griffin Reekie, Austin O'Brien, Ali O'Brien, and
Colin O'Brien.
Services will be held at All Saints Episcopal Church in Winter Park, Florida on Friday April 14th
at 3:00 pm. A celebration of life will follow at The Venue on Lake Lily in Maitland, Florida. All
are welcome.