Inspiring Community: Bill and Prudence Fields
It was a Saturday night in February 1964 at a nightclub in Boston when Bill first laid eyes on Prudence.
Prudence was there with the cast of “Funny Girl,” a musical comedy starring Barbara Streisand. They were doing a pre-Broadway rehearsal, preparing for the New York opening in early March. Bill was also there by arrangement for a vocal performance by his voice instructor at The New England Conservatory of Music, where Bill took night courses while completing his final year at Harvard Law School.
One week following their initial meeting, the two had their first official date and then married the following June in New York City — just four months later. They decided to settle in Marietta, where Bill established his law practice as a partner at Strecker & Fields, and Prudence embraced being a housewife.
Prudence, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, grew up marveling at her mother, who participated in local drama productions, as well as her voice studies teacher, who was a prominent opera singer. Following graduation from Northwestern University, she scurried to New York to pursue a career in Broadway musicals as a mezzo-soprano. She participated in several “off-Broadway” shows through her New York agent, leading to her casting in “Funny Girl.”
Bill spent much of his time involved in local legal, business, and hospital activities. He enjoyed Marietta Rotary Club and was its President from 1970-71. Both of them served on the national Board of Directors of the National Society of Arts and Letters.
While much of their focus is dedicated to their faith, their involvement in the arts has never ceased. The two have given vocal performances at churches and Christian colleges and universities. Prudence often sang for local societies and charities. Bill undertook bass-baritone solo roles in cantatas, oratories, and requiems with area choral societies. Both studied voice at Marietta College with several successive professors.
Marietta quickly became home for Bill and Prudence, and they have dedicated their time, talent, and treasure to ensure its welfare.
After becoming familiar with Marietta Community Foundation, both served on the Board of Directors. Prudence from 1993-1995, and Bill from 2001-2006. Additionally, Bill has lent his baritone genius to the Foundation by voicing several radio commercials.
The Fields take great pride in having a relationship with each Director of the Foundation since its formation. They hope that more neighbors discover their ability to serve a cause they appreciate.
Now in their 80s, Bill and Prudence quietly spend time in churches and often travel with their precious dogs — Lucy and Nigel. They strive to live their lives in accordance with two Bible verses — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3, verses 5&6)
Recently Marietta Community Foundation published several stories of local families and organizations in the 2021 Annual Report: Inspiring Community. Each of these families has a unique background and perspective, but they all share an inspiring love for our community.
