William Bush Herbert, III passed away peacefully at Alive Hospice with his family by his side.

He is preceded in death by his father and mother, William Bush Herbert, Jr. and Rachel Pickering Herbert. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Merilyn Hovey Herbert; his sons, William Bush Herbert, IV and Charles Merrill Herbert; his grandchildren, William Harris Herbert (Hannah) and Sarah Elizabeth Bush Herbert; his great-grandchild, Charlotte Jean Herbert; his sister, Rachel “Missy” Herbert McKeand (Leonard), and his sister-in-law, Eleanor Hovey Rodgers.

Bill was proud to be a native Nashvillian. He graduated from Battle Ground Academy, receiving the most outstanding student honor and was President of his high school fraternity. He earned a Civil Engineering degree in 1960 from Vanderbilt University, while in the NROTC. After graduation, he served in the Navy for two years in Washington, D.C., retiring as a Lieutenant. Returning to Nashville, he joined the family business, Herbert Materials. Upon its sale, he formed his own company, W.B. Herbert Builders, and transformed many beautiful homes.

Bill and Merilyn moved to the family farm where he was never happier than driving his John Deere tractor bush hogging 40+ acres. He loved every single acre of the 480 acres and had 31 glorious years there. He loved living in Pegram and served many years as Vice Mayor.

His love of hunting lasted throughout his life, serving as President of Buffalo River Hunting Club for many years, enjoying the company of friends and his beloved dogs.

Bill was devoted to his wife and sons, and his grandchildren, Will and Sarah, who brought him such pleasure…he was so proud of them. He was fortunate to have many close friends. His was a life rich in character, love and loyalty. He had many health challenges, but faced them with grace and tenacity. A man of immense integrity, he leaves an example for all who knew him.

Special thanks to his wonderful, caring doctors: Dr. Tom Johnston at Centennial Cardiology and Dr. Benjamin Womack at Vanderbilt.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 27th, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Harpeth Hills - 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221.

The family will have a private burial at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Alive Hospice Nashville.