It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of William "Bill" Emil Yessman Jr., who entered into peaceful rest and joined the angels in Heaven on November 29, at the age of 66. Bill was born on May 18, 1959, in Newark, New Jersey, the son of the late William E., Sr., and Mary Ann Yessman. He married the love of his life, Anne Manginelli, on June 27, 1981, and together they shared 44 wonderful years of marriage. Bill graduated from Horseheads High School in 1977 and Corning Community College in 1979. He was a proud veteran of the United States Coast Guard, serving his country with honor and integrity. After completing his military service, he joined the Schuyler County Sheriff's Department in 1985 as a Deputy Sheriff. Over the course of 36 years, Bill held nearly every position within the sheriff's office, serving as a K-9 handler, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Undersheriff, concluding with the top rank of county Sheriff, a position he held for 16 years (2006–2022). In addition to his regular duties, he also served as the Schuyler County Stop DWI Coordinator, contributing his skills and dedication to the county's safety efforts. Upon retirement, Bill shared that one of the accomplishments he was most proud of was maintaining strong, respectful working relationships with his deputies as well as other county agencies. Bill dedicated himself not only to his career but also to his community. He was active in the Odessa Lions Club, United Way, and numerous other civic organizations. Above all, Bill was a devoted family man. He was the proud father of Andrew and Allison, and nothing brought him more joy than being "Papa" to his beloved grandchildren: Julian and Jack Yessman, and Vincent, Camryn, Dominic, and Alexandra Van Curen. He cherished every moment spent with them and loved supporting their activities. In his free time, Bill enjoyed attending local car shows and proudly showing off his 1988 Pontiac Firebird, and fishing with his grandson Jack. Bill is survived by his cherished wife, Anne; his beloved children, Andrew (Breana) Yessman and Allison (Anthony) Van Curen; his sisters, Cindy (Steven) Wojcik, Teresa (Bill) Rossi, Peggy (Steven) Farrell, and Elizabeth (Joseph) Lambert; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and countless friends. He will be deeply missed by his family and by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, December 7th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Burdett Fire House, 4124 Lake Ave, Burdett, NY with a service to follow. A private interment for immediate family will be held at Woodlawn National Cemetery, with full military honors in recognition of his service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a charity of the donor's choice.