Obituary: William Metcalfe Scofield

Prepared by the Scofield family

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William Metcalfe Scofield of Port Jefferson. William passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 88.

William was born Jan. 12, 1936, in Goshen to Mary Louise and George Scofield. He joined a growing family that included his brother Doug and sister Sonya. Another brother, Buddy, had passed at a young age. The Scofield family later moved to Port Jefferson, where George had taken a teaching position in the school district.

At Port Jefferson High School, William was an All-County basketball and baseball player, graduating in 1954. It was also at Port Jefferson High that he met his future wife, Lillian, in a memorable encounter — he shot her with a paper clip to get her attention. The playful gesture sparked a lifelong connection, and the couple married in 1956, celebrating 68 years together.

After graduating high school, William and Lillian moved to Canton, where he attended St. Lawrence University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and a master’s in education while working summers on the St. Lawrence Seaway. During their time in Canton, the couple welcomed their first two children, Richard and Gary.

William participated in ROTC during college and, upon graduation, reported to Fort Knox, Ky., as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. While stationed at Fort Knox, the couple had their daughter Dorene. After completing his service, William and his family returned to Port Jefferson, where he followed in his father’s footsteps by taking a teaching position at Port Jefferson High School.

For the next 30 years, William taught mathematics at the high school, earning the respect of students and colleagues alike. He also served as the junior varsity baseball coach alongside his close friend Al Desiderio, who coached the varsity team. The duo — beloved by players and fans — dedicated three decades to the sport. In one of life’s fitting moments, William, known as #18, has now joined Al, #39, in heaven’s hall of fame.

After retiring in 1991, William embraced a life filled with golf, traveling, family and personal projects. His years of retirement were marked by cherished moments spent with his growing family.

William is survived by his wife Lillian, children Rich, Gary and Dorene, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Rest in peace, William. You will be deeply missed. Fairways and greens.

Viewings were held at Bryant Funeral Home in East Setauket on Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. A short service followed on Monday, Nov. 25, with interment at Calverton National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations to First United Methodist Church and Save-a-Pet in Port Jefferson.