William David Whiteside, age 61, of Alexandria,Va, passed away suddenly on April 13, 2026. William is survived by his wife, Stephanie AS Whiteside and his son and daughter, Matthew and Sarah. He is also survived by his mother, Hazel Watkins.
Bill was born on August 26, 1964 in McCandless, Pa and then raised in Ligonier, Pa. After graduating from high school he left Pa and earned a degree from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He pursued a career with his passion of aviation. Bill traveled around the USA in his younger years then settled in Alexandria, Va where he met and married his wife, Stephanie in 1995. Their son, William Matthew Whiteside, was born on Oct. 2, 1996 and then their daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Whiteside on Jan. 12, 2001.
Bill was devoted to his family. He loved being with and helping his son and daughter in their growing years. Their happiness was his happiness. His son, Matthew’s, years long participation in Special Olympics became a special joy for him. His daughter, Sarah’s, propensity for academia gave him incomparable pride.
His career in aeronautics led him to his work at the FAA. This work gave him both challenge and satisfaction for more than 20 years.
Bill’s very unexpected passing brings unparalleled grief to his family, friends and colleagues and those who knew him. He will be forever missed and never forgotten.
A memorial service will be held in his hometown of Ligonier, Pa on June 2, 2026. A memorial gathering will be held in Alexandria, Va in August, 2026 for all of his friends and colleagues, the exact date to be announced.