RAYNARD, William George ‘Bill’

Passed away suddenly at his home in Clifford on Sunday, October 11, 2026, in his 81st year. Bill was born on August 12, 1946, in London, Ontario to Gordon & Lillian (Uplegger) Raynard and grew up alongside his brother Robert ‘Bob’. He is survived by his brother Bob Raynard & Gloria Decker of Delaware, his children Gord & Crystal Raynard of Moorefield, Lillian Raynard & Chad Benesh of Grand Marais, Minnesota, Colin & Ashley Raynard of Guelph, and Jeremiah ‘Jer’ Raynard of Port Elgin. Remembered also by his children’s mother Wendy of Port Elgin, grandchildren Allison, Elizabeth, Lucas, Logan, Carson, and Liam, and by Gloria’s son Chris Decker & Karen of Kilworth. Bill cared deeply about his family, community, education, and staying active. He supported his children and grandchildren in their various academic, athletic, and other activities in which they were passionate. He rarely missed a game or a chance to show up and take a photo of his family any time he could. Bill believed in giving back to his community in many ways. He coached hockey in Northern Ontario and with Clifford Minor Hockey for most of his adult life. He was active with the Grass Roots program in Clifford, Clifford United Church, Clifford Lions Club, Minto Trail Committee, Chantry Island Tours, and the Belmore Maple Syrup Festival. Bill attended London Teacher’s College. His love for Northern Ontario took him to Ansonville, where he began his career in public education. After teaching there, followed by South Porcupine, Bill eventually made his way to Huron County where he taught at Howick Central School for many years before retiring. Bill stayed active throughout his life by fishing, hunting, running, slo-pitch, playing pickleball, and biking. One of his proudest fishing moments was winning the Owen Sound Salmon Spectacular fishing derby in 1990, reeling in a 33.66 lb. Chinook Salmon. He was also an avid kayaker, but his true passion was playing hockey, even earning a spot in the “Huff and Puff” Hall of Fame. The impact Bill made through his teaching and community endeavours will continue to live on for many years to come. A Celebration of Bill’s life will be held at Clifford Community Hall (2 William St. N., Clifford) on Friday, November 13, 2026 from 1:00 to 4:00pm with a brief service at 2:00pm. Memorial donations to the Clifford Food Bank would be appreciated and may be made through the Hardy-Lee Funeral Home, Harriston.

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