William J. Devereaux

In East Providence, R.I., 81, of 4 Florence Street, Riverside, passed away on October 16, 2007, surrounded by his family at the Phillip Hulitar Hospice Center. His beloved wife, Geraldine, preceded him 10 years ago. Bill was born in Somerville, MA, on January 26, 1926. He was educated at St. John's High School where at the age of 17, at the outbreak of World War II, he enlisted in the US Navy. He saw action in the Pacific Theatre as a Signalman on the USS Sibley and was a participant in the historic battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. Upon release from the active duty, he enrolled at Boston College, using his benefits under the G.I. Bill, and graduated in 1950. After his marriage to Geraldine (O'Connor) he settled in Providence and began a successful career with the Narragansett Brewing Co. ultimately serving as controller and manager of sales. He later worked for Wayne Distributing Co. in Cranston and began a second successful career as a lobbyist for the Beverage Industry. His first love was his wife and family and he is survived by two daughters; Joan E. Devereaux and her husband Daniel Dilorati of Braintree, MA and Mary E. Sullivan and her husband Chris Sullivan of Sarasota, FL, two sons; William P. Devereaux and his wife Amy of North Smithfield and Stephen J. Devereaux of East Providence, as well as six devoted grandchildren; Bridgette Sullivan, Stephen, Belle and John Devereaux, Olivia Dilorati and William G. Devereaux. Bill was a true friend and a mentor to many and his family truly appreciates the many expressions of concern and sympathy they have received. His funeral will be held on Monday, October 22, 2007 from the W. Raymond Watson Funeral Home, 350 Willett Avenue, RIVERSIDE, RI, at 7:45 am with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Brendan Church, Turner Avenue, Riverside at 9 am. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Calling hours will be on Sunday, October 21 from 3-7 pm. Flowers are respectfully omitted. Contributions in William's memory to the Phillip Hulitar Center, c/o Home and Hospice Care of RI, 169 George St., Pawtucket, RI, 02860 would be deeply appreciated.