William C. Berndt, Jr.

William C. Berndt, Jr., of Richmond, Virginia, passed away on March 7, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on September 29, 1947, Billy grew up in the city’s Museum District, where he attended St. Benedict’s Grade School and St. Benedict Catholic Church. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1966 before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. He served at Nha Trang Air Base in Vietnam, where he saw action during the Tet Offensive, and received an honorable discharge in 1975. He then began a long career as a mechanical and electrical technician.

A proud member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles #4211, the VFW, and the Deutscher Sport Club of Richmond, Billy was known for his love of the outdoors and his deep passion for music. He cherished time with family and friends and lived by the belief that love is the answer.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Virginia Berndt, and his sister, Irene Guthrie. He is survived by Stephanie King; his children, Chris (Kim), Katy (Justin), Aimee (Patrick), and Hannah; his siblings, Martha, Bobby (Bettie), Tommy (Marie), and Betty (Matt); and his grandchildren, Caleb, Kaitlyn, Jessica, and Rebecca, as well as many nieces and nephews. Billy leaves behind a wide circle of dear friends who will remember him with great affection.