William "Bill" R. Way, 78, a lifelong area resident, died on Friday, July 30, 2021, at the Four Seasons Nursing Home in Brooklyn. Born July 30, 1943 in Poughkeepsie, he was the son of the late Gordon Way and Bertha Turner Way. Bill worked for IBM in Poughkeepsie as a Mail Clerk for many years before his retirement. He later worked driving a school bus for Arlington School District. On November 8,1964 Bill married the former Elaine Burgher. Mrs. Way, his wife of 57 years, survives at home. Bill was an active member of the Connecticut Hurricanes Drum and Bugle Corps and was active with the Salvation Army in his younger years. He was also a coach for Hyde Park Little League in the 1980's. Bill could often be found watching a John Wayne movie, a Yankee game, or hosting a party with his family and friends. Along with his wife, Bill is survived by his "son" George Way Jr, and wife Christene of Staatsburg, three grandchildren Justin Way and his wife Meagan, Courtney Way and Trevor Way, a great grandson Hudson Way, step-grandchildren Caitlin Clearwater-McGann, and Brendan McGann and his beloved dog, Dollyann, and cat, Jacob. He is also survived by his sister Dorothy Hughes of Hyde Park, NY and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his five siblings, John Way, George Way Sr., Emma Way, Anna Mae Moyer, and Bertha Woodin. In keeping with his wishes, cremation will take place, and a private celebration of his life will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, William's family respectfully requests memorial donations be made to the Dutchess County SPCA, 636 Violet Ave, Hyde Park, NY 12538 www.dcspca.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park. To send an online condolence, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com