William P. Prosper

William P. Prosper “Bill” passed away peacefully at home on July 22, 2024, with his family by his side. 

Born in 1945 to the late Gertrude Mazzeo (Spear) and Peter Prosper, Bill grew up in the Port Richmond neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pa. He was educated in the Philadelphia Public School system and went to the prestigious Central High School, Class 219.

He proudly served his country in the Navy aboard the USS Hornet and served in The Vietnam War. An experienced amateur boxer at the Golden Gloves before joining the Navy, he earned a spot on the Navy boxing team, training at the Naval helicopter base, N.A.S. Ream Field, in Imperial Beach, CA. He and his team dominated tournaments throughout the years that they served. Bill was a member of the oldest Veterans Boxing Association in the country [V.B.A Ring # 1], located in Philadelphia, Pa.

In 1987 he followed his passion to build his own business and opened a bar in Kensington called “The Brass Ring”. He left “The Brass Ring” to pursue a career as a Probation Officer for the City of Philadelphia, where he worked with troubled youth, retiring after 22 years.

Bill always had a strong love of music and loved every genre from “Doo Wop” to Rock. You could find him on any given weekend playing one of his 100’s of records. He was also an avid reader and loved to write. One of his proudest accomplishments was completing a book of his own, titled “Closer to the Sun” in 2016. 

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving partner and devoted wife of 34 years, Sandra; Two sons, Peter and Jordan (deceased); his daughter, Valerie Ibarrondo (Anthony); his stepdaughter, Shanae Robinson (Reggie Sr); his stepson, Antoinne Reaves Sr., Ten grandchildren: Andre, Gianni, Lola, and Mia; Reggie Jr.; Kayla, Jayden, Alyssa, Antoinne Jr., and Alasia. Two sisters, Lynn Prosper Frame (Charles) and Melody Prosper McHugh (deceased). Two brothers, Tony and Peter Prosper (deceased). A host of nieces and nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Please join the Prosper family on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm at Delaware Valley Cremation Center, 7350 State Road, Philadelphia, PA 19136 for a gathering of remembrance in honoring and celebrating Bill’s life. A viewing for Bill will begin at 6:00 pm, followed by a service at 7:00pm. There will be time for refreshments and fellowship afterwards, until 9:00 pm. His family will be accessible to receive the loving comfort of your condolences, remembrances and support throughout the evening.