William Bailey Heard

William Bailey Heard, born on October 21, 1941, in Montrose, Colorado, passed away on September 10, 2023, in Easton Maryland surrounded by the love of his family. He was a man of extraordinary accomplishments and a devoted family man, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and wisdom. William's journey through life was marked by academic excellence and a profound commitment to knowledge. He proudly graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1963 (Company 10) with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics. Throughout his life, he remained a proud member of Company 10; affectionately known as “the Terrible 10." His passion for learning led him to further academic achievements. He earned his Master of Arts in Mathematics from the University of Colorado, followed by a Ph.D. in Astronomy and an M.Phil. from Yale University. His academic pursuits reflected his insatiable curiosity and dedication to the sciences. Dr. Heard's career was marked by distinction and innovation. From 1973 to 1975, he served as an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at the U.S. Naval Academy, shaping the minds of future leaders. In 1975, he accepted a prestigious position as a Scientist at the Naval Research Laboratory, where he made groundbreaking contributions by developing theoretical and computational techniques for space systems and internal ocean waves. From 1978 to 2003, Dr. Heard's expertise was further demonstrated as a Scientist for Exxon/Exxon Mobil Research and Engineering. His passion for education extended beyond the laboratory, as he held adjunct teaching positions at esteemed institutions like Rutgers University, Stevens Institute of Technology, and Fairleigh Dickinson University. His teachings encompassed numerical methods, computational fluid dynamics, and continuum mechanics, inspiring countless students. In 2003, after a storied career, Dr. Heard embraced retirement while continuing to share his knowledge and insights as an independent writer. His words continued to inspire and educate, reflecting his lifelong commitment to the pursuit of knowledge. William Bailey Heard is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret Mary Shea, and their three children: Cara Ellicott (and husband Ross Ellicott) of Manasquan, New Jersey, Robert Shea Heard of New York, New York, and Daniel Bailey Heard (and wife Jessica (nee Mulhern) of Severna Park and sister Bonnie Giles (Gary) of Evergreen and Ouray, Colorado. His legacy extends to five cherished grandchildren: Bailey Ellen Ellicott, Clark Conety Ellicott, Jonathan Shea Ellicott, William Bailey Heard, and Paige Caroline Heard. A private internment ceremony, honoring William's remarkable life, will be held at the United States Naval Academy at a later date. William Bailey Heard's impact on the worlds of mathematics, astronomy, and education is immeasurable. His unwavering love for his family, coupled with his dedication to scholarship, will forever be remembered. His legacy will continue to inspire us all. He is profoundly missed.