William Charles Herman

"Bill" age 87 died peacefully at home in New Rochelle on Monday, April 3, 2023. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elizabeth and daughter, Sarah-Jane. Bill is survived by his sisters, Harriet and Linda (Henry), his son, Howard, daughter-in-law, Vivian, granddaughter, Phoebe, grandson, Matthew and his mother, Nicky, his sister-in-law, Rhoda and cherished nieces and nephews, their spouses and children and grandchildren.

Born in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, on Nov 6, 1935, Bill rose from humble beginnings. His father, Milton drove a taxi and his mother, Hortense was a homemaker who raised 6 children. Bill distinguished himself early academically and attended Brooklyn Technical High School, graduating in 1953. He then attended CCNY for undergrad studies and received a law degree from Columbia University in 1959. He was admitted to the Bar in 1960. Although Bill initially practiced criminal law with his partner, Gilbert Rosenthal, by the early 1970's he shifted to matrimonial law where he became one of the leading experts in the field.

In addition to his successful career and family life, Bill became deeply involved with The Camphill School where his daughter Sarah-Jane, who had special needs, went to live from the age of 10. Bill served as the Chairman of the Camphill Assoc. of North America for many years helping to build the work of the Camphill Movement on this continent. He also served as the Chairman of the Camphill Foundation and was a Board Member or that org for over 50 years. Bill was a friend and mentor to three generations of Camphill's leadership, also raising considerable funds to significantly grow the movement's capacity to serve children and adults with intellectual disabilities. He will be remembered by friends and families there as a lion-hearted man, full of courage, love and steadfast commitment. Bill's life was greatly enriched by his involvement with Camphill, and he felt he was a better person for having had the opportunity to work for this noble cause. Should friends desire memorial contributions may be made to the Camphill School , 1784 Fairview Road, Glenmoore, PA 19343. Memorial Service will be at Ballard & Durand Funeral Home, 2 Maple Ave. White Plains, NY on 4/14 from 1:00-3:00 pm.


Parking is available at the funeral home. The is a primary parking lot attached to the building and a secondary lot directly across the street from the building. There will be two parking lot attendants in the lot to assist.