William Francis Harbort

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William "Bill" Francis Harbort Jr. on September 23, 2024, in Arlington, Texas.

Bill was born on August 9, 1933 in Luzerne, Pennsylvania to William Sr. and Elizabeth (Moreck) Harbort. After graduating from Manhattan College in Riverdale, New York with a BBA degree, Bill proudly served in the US Air Force as a Captain and Navigator.

When Bill was in elementary school, he met a sweet classmate named Rita Shirley Sears. Their friendship steadily blossomed and in 1955, they were married at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in New York City. They remained married for more than 69 years, sharing a life full of happiness and cherished memories.

Bill loved to sail his Catalina 22 and was a member of the Arlington Yacht Club beginning in 1977. He served as Commodore on the Board of Directors in 1996. A man of unwavering faith, he dedicated himself to his community, serving as a lector at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church. He was also a member of the Leisure Club. Bill's kindness and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.

Bill will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Rita; his son, William Harbort III (Tina) of Columbus, Ohio; his daughters Lorraine O'Neill (David) of Euless, Texas, Barbara Pittman (Melvin) of Arlington, Texas, and Dorothy Tyler (David) of Haltom City, Texas as well as his seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 10:00am at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 1200 S Davis Dr, Arlington, Texas 76013, with a reception in the church community hall. Bill will be buried at a later date at the DFW National Cemetery in Dallas, Texas.

Let us remember the joy that Bill brought to our lives and the legacy of love he leaves behind for generations to come. May he rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation in Bill's honor to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charity of your choice.