First Selectman William A. “Bill” Gerber, a devoted public servant, longtime resident and well-respected leader in Fairfield town government, died Tuesday, July 15, at Yale New Haven Hospital from complications following brain surgery. He was 60.
Gerber had served as Fairfield’s chief elected official since January 2024, following his election the previous November. Though his tenure was brief, it was marked by a tireless commitment to ethical leadership, thoughtful policymaking and a belief that government works best when it listens, collaborates, and puts community first.
Gerber was diagnosed just weeks ago with an aggressive brain tumor. He underwent two surgeries but continued working up until the day before his hospitalization. His family said he passed away at 4:11 p.m., surrounded by loved ones.
“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved father and husband Bill Gerber passed away,” his family said in a statement. “Despite the physical issues he was experiencing, he worked long days and attended evening meetings up until the day before he went into the hospital. To say that there is now a gaping hole in our lives is an understatement.”
A resident of Fairfield for more than 30 years, Gerber was known not just for his policy priorities — which included infrastructure upgrades, public safety investments, housing affordability and educational excellence — but also for his quiet decency, listening ear, and technocratic approach shaped by decades in the financial services industry. A graduate of Wesleyan University, NYU Stern School of Business, and George Washington University Law School, he brought both intellect and empathy to the work of governing.
Before running for first selectman, Gerber served for 10 years on Fairfield’s Representative Town Meeting, building a reputation as a principled problem-solver. His campaign emphasized transparency, fiscal discipline and the idea that local government should reflect the best of its residents.
“Bill Gerber was a friend, colleague, and role model. He loved this community and was dedicated to improving the lives of all our residents,” said Acting First Selectman Christine Vitale, who is now leading the town’s day-to-day operations. “We ran for office on the belief that we are better when we work together. I am committed to working with my fellow elected officials to advance his vision of a town that is welcoming and accessible to all, with a thriving business community, anchored by a strong school system and public safety resources.”
The announcement of his death prompted an outpouring of grief across Fairfield and beyond.
Governor Ned Lamont described Gerber as a compassionate and ethical leader who “was passionate about serving his community and always dedicated to giving back, whether it was through public service or philanthropy.”
U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal called Gerber “a kind, devoted public servant whose tireless drive to deliver effective leadership to a community he loved reflects the kind of person he was — bright, caring, and deeply invested in the betterment of Fairfield and Connecticut.”
State Sens. Tony Hwang and Stephen Harding, representing the Connecticut Senate Republican Caucus, also issued a statement regarding Gerber’s passing.
“Bill Gerber loved serving the public, and he loved Fairfield,” the senators said. “He dedicated himself to improving the lives of the people he served. We send our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends, co-workers and all Fairfield residents during this difficult time.”
U.S. Rep. Jim Himes shared his condolences, stating, “I am heartbroken to hear of the tragic passing of Fairfield First Selectman Bill Gerber. Bill was a friend whose dedication to bettering his town was something I found as remarkable as it was moving. He loved Fairfield and his neighbors there and I know I will be one of many who will miss him. Mary and my hearts are with Bill’s family and community during this very challenging time.”
Colleagues said his greatest legacy will not only be in the policies he championed but in the trust he built — a trust grounded in humility, patience, and service.
Flags across Fairfield are flying at half-staff. Condolence books are available at Old Town Hall and Independence Hall, where residents are invited to share remembrances and messages to the Gerber family. Town officials say plans for a public memorial ceremony are forthcoming.
“The Town leadership and staff extend their deepest condolences to Mr. Gerber’s family, friends and loved ones,” said Vitale. “Fairfield has lost a dedicated leader.”
From FCN partner Easton Courier.
