William A. “Bill” Doney
Teacher, Farmer and Public Servant
William A. “Bill” Doney, Sr. was born in West Newton in 1940, but not on a farm. Bill made the choice to become a farmer. He started farming in South Huntingdon Township in 1966, while continuing to work as a teacher in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District.
Being a great teacher, Bill was also a great learner. He researched and applied what was needed to operate a productive farm. In the process, he learned the importance of being a good steward of precious land and water resources. Bill enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others and mentoring those interested in agriculture.
As a result of his dedication to sound agricultural conservation practices, Bill was recognized as the Westmoreland Conservation District’s Conservation Farmer of the Year in 2000. Shortly thereafter, he was nominated to the District’s Board of Directors, where he served for 25 years.
As a District director, Bill often asked thought-provoking questions. He spoke out firmly when he believed in something and was a good listener. He helped the board maintain a progressive tempo, balanced with accountability and spiced with a good sense of humor.
For many years, Bill and his wife Donna shared their passion for education by volunteering at the Westmoreland Conservation District Envirothon, a fun environmental knowledge competition for teams of high school students. They served as steadfast Envirothon station hosts at this outdoor springtime event through sun, rain and snow.
Faith, family and community service were central to Bill’s life. He taught in the Baldwin-Whitehall School District for 37 years; served as a member of the Yough School Board for 12 years; was a founding member of the West Newton Ambulance Service; and served as a Turkeytown Volunteer Fire Department first responder for 25 years.
Bill Doney’s legacy of service, stewardship, hard work, and quiet strength will live on in the countless lives he touched and in the land he loved.