William James Archer III

William J. “Jim” Archer III, 74, awesome father to Chelsea and Wills, beloved husband to Toni, made a peaceful transition to heaven October 15, 2025 after a years-long struggle with COPD. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded in love by family and dear friends. He was born in Portsmouth, the only son and baby of the family, to William J. “Hunky” Archer Jr and Bertie A. Archer. He was a graduate of Churchland High School, class of 1969, and attended Tidewater Community College. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Linda A. Legum, nephew Aaron Legum, and brother-in-law James C. Schneider. Jim had a 40-year career as a mortgage loan officer, retiring from Old Virginia Mortgage. He served his customers with integrity and excellent customer service, going out of his way to ensure that his clients had a smooth and successful home-buying experience. Jim was an amazing all-round athlete. In his younger years, he played on several adult softball and basketball leagues. He also played tennis, but golf was his first love. Wednesday and Friday blitzes, Sunday with a regular group of friends, or any other opportunity; he would be on the course. Two of his proudest moments were getting his hole-in-one and qualifying for the Eastern Amateur Golf Tournament at Elizabeth Manor. He also coached both of his children’s basketball and soccer teams in the Western Branch Rec League. Jim never met a stranger. He was a steadfast friend, always up for a party, poker night, or an impromptu get-together. He was always willing to help a buddy whenever the need arose. He will be deeply missed by his golfing cronies, his “Brothers of Pong” ping-pong group and his Wednesday night pool buddies. But first and foremost, Jim fiercely loved his family. He leaves to rejoice his memory, Toni, his wife of almost 40 years, and his children, Chelsea Archer and William J. “Wills” Archer IV. He will also be deeply missed by his sister, Mary Jane Pope; his brothers-in- law Max Pope and Larry Legum, and his sisters-in-law Robin Schneider and Debra Wagner. He was a much-loved uncle to four nieces and five nephews. He will always be in the hearts of our family and those of his wonderful circle of friends. Jim touched so many people in his lifetime-all of whom have a story to tell! Our family is humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and tributes we have received in the aftermath of his death. We would also like to acknowledge the wonderful care he received from Gentiva Hospice over the past year and a half, especially the care and advocacy of his nurse, Rebecca Shell. Plans for Jim’s Celebration of Life are pending and are planned for the near future. Final arrangements will be posted on Facebook. If you so choose, donations in Jim’s memory can be made to the American Lung Association.