It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of William A. Cobb, Jr, a cherished husband, father and grandfather who departed this life on May 8, 2026, at the age of 81. He died unexpectedly at home, where he loved to be. Born on October 21, 1944, he was the son of the late William A. and Ruth E. (Borthwick) Cobb of Blue Bell, PA. 

Bill was deeply devoted to his family, leaving behind his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Susan E. (Ehret) Cobb; four children, J. Michael Cobb (Shannon), Christine L. Tranchida (Stephen), Jill E. Kleppinger (Adam), and Ashley A. Driscoll (Terrence); and nine grandchildren. He is survived by 2 brothers, Arthur Cobb (Brenda) and David Cobb (Jan). He was predeceased by his sister, Betty Jean Dorris (Roger).

Bill graduated from Eisenhower High School in Norristown, PA, then continued his studies at Lehigh University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in applied science in 1966 and a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial engineering in 1967. He went on to earn an MBA from Drexel University. He was a firm believer in the power of education. He went into business with his father at Haverstick-Borthwick, a general contracting company, and over time became the owner and president. During his tenure, working together with his brother, Arthur, he grew the company to be a significant and well-respected presence in the community and known for historic renovations. The company was trusted with the renovations of Philadelphia landmarks including the Academy of Music, Christ Church and Carpenters’ Hall, winning numerous awards for excellence. He was a longtime member of the General Building Contractors Association, serving as president with a drive to improve the industry.

Dedication to his family, deep Christian faith, and a strong work ethic were core to Bill’s identity. An active member of the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill for 47 years, he served in a variety of leadership roles including as an Elder, on the Property Committee and as Head Usher. He also participated in multiple mission trips to Haiti. Bill was very blessed and felt it was important to give back to others, a value which he instilled in his children. He had a great love for American history and Philadelphia sports teams. He was committed to physical fitness, enjoying running, biking, hiking, and in his later years training at his gym. He would not allow anyone else to mow his lawn or shovel his snow! He was also fascinated by technology and always among the first to try out each new technological advance. His greatest love was to be with his children and grandchildren. Despite his busy professional life, he always made the effort to attend their events and made sure each one knew he would support them in any way he could.

Whether in business or in nature, with family or in service, he gave it everything he had, never content with anything less than his best. Bill leaves behind a legacy of a life lived to the fullest, doing his utmost to never waste a moment. 

Please join us for a memorial service honoring Bill's life and legacy on Monday, July 13th, at 11 a.m., at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, 8855 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity or Doctors Without Borders.