Marland William Gervais

Marland William Gervais, known as Bill to friends and family, went to be with his Heavenly Father on December 5, 2025. He enjoyed a long and rich life and touched many people with his extraordinary musical talent. Central to everything he did, Bill had an abiding and deep faith in God his whole life. 

He was born in Racine, Wisconsin, to Marland Lawrence Gervais and Nellie Esther (Waber) Gervais on April 13, 1935, the second of four children. He met his beloved wife and faithful companion of 68 years, Jean Audrey (Harrison) Gervais, in Racine where they were high school sweethearts and married on September 28, 1957.

He was a caring and devoted father to their three children. Bill pursued his love of classical and church music throughout his life, earning degrees in sacred music, organ performance, and music education. He taught piano, organ, music, and choir to students of all ages; most recently as a music educator at Maniscalco Elementary in Lutz, Florida where he retired.

Bill lived a healthy and active life as a church organist, lover of the outdoors and plants, and cultivator of beautiful flowers, gardens, and yards wherever he lived. He was an avid swimmer and enjoyed bicycling and walking in nature.

He was a life-long learner, touring museums and botanical gardens, reading, attending symphony concerts, and listening to his musical recordings.

Bill is survived by his wife Jean, three children, Cynthia Fain (Daniel), Brenda Didelot (Thomas), Marland Daniel Gervais; five grandchildren, Aled, Lucas, Elise Fain, Evan and Annika Didelot; sister, Connie Stephenson; three great grandchildren, Ezekiel, Miles, and Xander Fain.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Jack Gervais, and sister Diana Torke.

A Memorial Gathering honoring the Life of Bill will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 11:00am with the Service starting at 12:00pm at Loyless Funeral Homes, 5310 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, Florida 34639.