William G. Jamison

Behold, children are a gift from the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is a reward...Happy the man whose quiver is filled with them.

-Psalm 127:3-5

Vernell Riley and her husband William Grant Jamison Sr. were blessed with a son on 15 Aug 1940. William Grant Jr. would be known as Bill. They were blessed with six more children, Eleanor, Ronald, James, Harold, Nathaniel, and Kenneth. Throughout the course of his marriages to Berlinda and Nadine, Bill was a father to his beloved children. His Children are Melinda, Rodnie, Deeadra, William III, Storm, Auden, stepchildren Aziza, Nadinah, Keica, Latonya, Tameka, and Paul. He is survived by his wife, Nadine, a host of loving family nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends. He peacefully transitioned on Thursday, 12 March 2026.

Bill was a South Philly native and a graduate of South Philly High, enjoying his early accomplishments in football and gymnastics. After completing his enlistment in the United States Air Force, he earned a B.A. at West Chester University. His graduate work at Columbia University School of the Arts led to his career as an NBC News Producer. He earned an Emmy Award while working as the Midwest Producer for NBC News.

Sharing his talents and skills with those in need always, he worked an African Water Project in the Peace Corps. After meeting Nadine at the Houston Community Center while writing plays together, they married on Valentine's Day. They were blessed with 27 years of marriage. He and Nadine took their talents to Harrisburg. He was an investigator for the Human Relations Committee, then later worked as Director of the Allison Hill Community Ministries. Bill provided social services for many children and families. This will remain a vital non-profit organization in Harrisburg because of the strong foundation he's worked on for 15 years. His creative spirit would be passed by him to many in his communities because Bill Jamison was called to work consistently not only in Youth Development but wherever there was a need. Philly, Dayton, Cleveland, California, Libera, Harrisburg, wherever he landed, his dedication, his inspiration, and encouragement were given freely.

Novelist, painter, poet, storyteller, producer, playwright, but Dad was his most cherished title. When his children were young, his discipline was serious. He was serious about both his children's education and learning about the world. His humorous approach in teaching reading was easily and deeply established... How do you teach a thirst for knowledge? Early math skills made school not only a breeze but enjoyable. How do you guide youth to their vocations? He listened and encouraged our dreams.

He shared with his children his love of nature and how special just getting outside can be. Swimming, hiking, boating...naming the mountain tops that we reached. The lifelong skills of basic survival. "Don't you sit down when you find it kinda hard." As we matured, he did not criticize but questioned, asked us to explain our thinking. The type of education that Bill provided cannot be bought.

Whether in Philly or Harrisburg, Bill and his laughter will be remembered fondly as willing to help, sharing his talent, and encouraging others. His footsteps may disappear but the imprints on persons are forever.

Be kind to one to another, compassionate, forgiving one another, as God has forgiven you in Christ.

-Ephesians 4:32