The Reverend Doctor William Barr Doster, Jr., 91, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
William (“Bill”) was born in Montgomery, Alabama, on February 27, 1935. A man of profound faith and intellect, he dedicated his life to spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and lifelong learning. He served as a Presbyterian and Reformed church minister, holding a Master of Theology, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry. He brought a spirit of activism to his ministry, quick to speak out against injustice. In addition to his ministry, he used his wisdom and compassion to guide others as a dedicated marriage counselor.
Beyond his professional and spiritual callings, William possessed an adventurous spirit and a relentless curiosity. He was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, an avid chess player, and a voracious reader who was always seeking to master new subjects. He held a deep love for travel, family vacations, and the great outdoors, famously hiking the Grand Canyon among his many explorations of National Parks.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Doster (née Ives); his two children, Robert and Sue Doster; and his two cherished grandchildren, Alexander and Andrew.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale, New Jersey.
A service will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at The Tappan Reformed Church, 35 Kings Highway, Tappan, New York, followed by interment and a repast.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in Bill’s honor to Holmes Camp (holmescamp.org) or the National Parks Conservation Association (npca.org).
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