SOUTH BEND, Ind. - Retired Vice President for University Relations and professor at the University of Notre Dame, William P. Sexton, died on October 17 at the age of 85.

Sexton was known to many as a gentleman--being considerate, gracious and showing genuine interest in each of his interactions. 

Notre Dame President, Reverend John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., reflected on how Sexton fostered him during his early years at the University. 

"He was always kind and encouraging to me in my early years in the University’s administration," said Reverend Jenkins in a Notre Dame news release. "Many have contributed to our current success, but very few more than Bill Sexton, who gave his life to the University of Notre Dame. We are grateful, and we will miss him.”

Sexton served as Vice President from 1983 to 2002, instrumentally directing the University’s offices of development, international advancement, special events and communications, as well as the Notre Dame Alumni Association.

Under Sexton, the University raised $1.1 billion towards the "Generations" campaign. 

As a professor, Sexton received the "Best Teacher Award" in the Mendoza School of Business four times, in his 40 years of experience. 

Despite his professional accolades, Sexton gave his time and effort towards the South Bend community. 

“I came to know Bill when I worked at the Center for the Homeless in South Bend and he served as a board member,” said Lou Nanni, Notre Dame's current Vice President for University Relations. “Bill was incredibly generous with his time and relationships and made so much happen for the betterment of the center." 

Sexton served on multiple boards: the Center for the Homeless, Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center and the Logan Foundation.

He is survived by his wife, Ann, and their six children: Amy, Tom, Dan, Tim, Jim and Mike, along with 19 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. 

A funeral Mass is planned for this Friday at 2:30 p.m. at Notre Dame's Basilica of the Sacred Heart.