William's obituary
William "Bill" Cain, 77, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, esteemed educator, administrator, and Hall of Fame high school basketball coach, passed away on June 20th, 2024 in Salisbury, MD surrounded by family. He was born on August 14th, 1946 in Morgantown, WV to loving parents Willie E. and Wilma Mae (Rushford) Cain who instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication.
Bill was a graduate of Morgantown High School, West Virginia University with a bachelor's degree, and Salisbury University with a master's degree. After 44 years, he retired from both Somerset County Public Schools and Wicomico County Board of Education where he served in multiple positions including as a Physical Education Teacher, Basketball Coach, Director of Administrative Services, Director of Human Resources, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, Chief Negotiator for the Board of Education, and Coordinator of Employee Relations.
He was respectfully known as "Coach Bill Cain." His basketball coaching record at Crisfield High School was the highlight of his public education career. In only 13 years of coaching basketball at Crisfield High School from 1969 to 1982, he was known for leading a "50 game winning streak." This included four state championships, seven regional titles, five division titles, and five Bayside championships at Crisfield High School. He loved coaching, and he also loved his players whom he formed lifelong friendships with.
Coach Bill Cain's impact reached far beyond the basketball court. He also had a knack for comedy, bringing joy to those around him with his humorous tales and quick wit. His passion for the game was matched only by his love for his family. In his retirement, he enjoyed golfing and traveling with his wife, sons, granddaughter, and grandson.
Bill was preceded in death by his twin brother George, eldest brother Richard, two elder sisters Shirley and Doris, and his childhood best friend whom he named his first son after, Greg Cecchinelli. He leaves behind his devoted wife Diana Lynn Cain; sons Gregory (Jessica) and Matthew; granddaughter Charlotte "Alicia" (James); grandsons Gregory Jr, Matthew Jr, and Priest; step-children Jamie (Tara) and Amy (Matt); step-grandchildren A'Niaya, Markeia, Elise, Jase, Hannah, Kyle, and Andrew; several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Visitation and viewing will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024 from 3:00-5:00 PM at Crisfield High School located at 201 N. Somerset Ave in Crisfield, MD. Funeral service at Crisfield High School will immediately follow at 5:00 PM. After the service, please join the family at The Crab Place located at 504 Maryland Ave in Crisfield, MD for refreshments and a celebration of life. A private burial ceremony will be held at a later date with immediate family.
In lieu of donations, be like Bill for a day; do something kind for a stranger without telling anyone.
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Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to the Cain family.
Used to love playing basketball with Bill.
God Bless!
Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to the Cain family.
Used to love playing basketball with Bil…
Rest in peace my friend. My condolences to the Cain family.
Used …