Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
WILLIAM CLEARY Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for WILLIAM CLEARY
Sponsored by Thomas G. Cleary.
Elnora Gress
October 11, 2017
Several months ago I ordered a copy of Mr. Clearys book..."We side with the morning." I got it from Ava Maria Press.
I did not know if I would like the book, but I loved the title...!
How I wish I had ordered many more copies of this wonderful book.
I had never read a prayer someone else had written...that made me feel that he knew what I was thinking...that made me feel like "I" had written the prayer.
Sometimes when I read one of these wonderful prayers, it just hits the nail on the head for the way I am feeling that day.
He had such great spiritually....such a way of expressing heart felt thoughts that we all think about, whether it is joy, gratitude, depression, heartache, or having doubts that God even exists.
Anyway, got up this morning and decided to write a little thank you note to this obviously wonderful person, and thank him for these wonderful prayers.
I knew he lived in Vermont
So, got on the Internet to see if I could get his address.
Was so very sorry to learn he had passed away. I wanted him to know how much I appreciate this great book of prayers/poems.
I will never be without it.
I will eventually order all my children a copy of it.
Thank you Mr Cleary for your wonderful insight.
My sympathy to your family for their great loss.
Rest in peace
Hopefully we can meet one day
George Stapleton
February 19, 2016
I found out only recently (2015) that Bill had died in 2012. I met Bill just by chance at a Call to Action conference in Milwaukee in 2004. Although we talked for just a little while between sessions, I ended up reading his Prayers to an Evolutionary God, The Jesuit's Escape, and We Side with the Morning. Bill had sent me that last book in manuscript form before it was published. I later ordered three copies of it when it was published, two of them to give them friends. I have re-read We Side with the Morning's daily reflections year after year since my first reading. I cannot express how much these deeply honest reflections have nourished me and kept my often baffled (seemingly a favorite word of Bill's) faith in a loving God alive.
Paschal Baute
November 21, 2013
I am so sorry to hear today (Nov 21, 2013, of Bill's passing. What a joy he was for many of us marred priests. When he took over our FCM newsletter he changed us by inviting real stories of actual ministry, and many of us then stepp0ed into a more active role to continue our priestliness. He was a dear friend and mentor, enormously talented. I bought and promoted many of his books in my own ministry, and only now (computer crash 2 years ago) coming to search for his email address
I am also a retired disable veteran now com0leting my memor, and seeking to find proper referencing of his books. I am honored to have been his friend. Our los(whi is great) is heaven's gain. I am sure he will be entertaining the saints with his music and storytelling. Paschal Baute, www.paschalbaute.com. Bill's influence, his great zest for life all through my spiritual memoir: Resilience of a Dream Catcher. launch in January 2014.My deepest condolences to his family.
Bill Neenan
July 2, 2012
n Missouri. He was an angel along with Schildroth, Wally Storher, Mose Mohr, Gene Maio, and Bill's brother, Tom, and Vince O'Flaherty the archangel. From that moment for the nexz\t twenty years Bill was a very important person in my life. Agency of Jesuit Writers,tertianship in Decatur where Bill, Carl Pfeifer and I discussed at great length Hans Urs von Balthasar's book Prayer. Can'remember much of the book or the discussion other than it was enspiriting. But the fact that I can remember our conversation fifty years later certainly means something. There have been other meetings in later years--that first play/pray retreat at Penasse Minn, and all-night discussion at the St Andrew's coffee club in Ann Arbor onBill's return from Korea, vists in Burlington at the boolk store, Cape May etc. But I hve been affected by Bill's friendship and will always be grateful for Bill's great spirit and overflowing hope. Thank you,Bill, And thahk you, Roddy, for being a gret friend for me for so many years. Much love, Bill Neenan
Jack Becker
July 2, 2012
Dear Roddy,
Bill was my “angel” when I entered the novitiate. Did you have angels in the convent? Angels guided us through the schedule for our first week or two in the novitiate. I remember standing with Bill outside the chapel that week while someone was practicing the organ. As we stood there he rhapsodized about the sound of an organ. Bill and Vince O'Flaherty entertained us all through our seminary days with their music. I particularly remember the singing monologue Vince wrote and Bill sang out at Charbonniere. Bill sang the part of a gold prospector who had lost his partner. The title of the most beautiful aria was “Each Day.” Of course, Phil Fischer came up with a satire on the whole thing by the next day.
When I left the Jesuits, Bill was the one who found me a job with Bill Holub, who was in charge of getting IDOC started. It was a terrific job for me. Our little community of ex-Jesuits and their wives who met weekly for Mass in New York was wonderful while it lasted. While you two lived in New Jersey, Bill and I played chess and had lunch together once a week. And then you all moved up to Vermont and we didn't see much of each other after that. I think Claire and I visited with you up there a few times, and you visited once in New York–was it after Claire had died?
I know not all of us who entered the Jesuits in those years were very happy, but Bill was one of the reasons I enjoyed my seminary life so much, as well as my life after the seminary. I just wanted you to know–late as I am in doing so–that I appreciate him and his life. Be well and be happy.
Jack Becker
June 5, 2012
Roddy and family:
I first knew Bill at Creighton Prep in Omaha where I played half of a three-legged Plastic Scholastic in one of his musicals. Later, while studying theology in Toronto I would travel to New York for Christmas week and our meetings of the Jesuit Writers Bureau reps. I spent a summer as an editor at America when Bill was there. The last time I spent time with Bill was at the honeymoon party at Philip Scharper's home in Stamford. I regret that our paths did not cross again after that although I kept tabs on his writing and music making and thought of him often. He will always be my image of the ideal Jesuit --to the end. Peace Bill, and peace to your family, and to all you touched along the way. -Michael Dorcy (Seattle, Wa)
John P. Wentland
May 29, 2012
Dear Roddy,
May these few words be a consolation in your loss!
Though I've not met you, I knew Bill through his compositions. In 1985 while a participant in the "Sunday Bunch" in the DC area with, among others, Pat and Carl Hemmer, I purchased a set of three audio cassettes "Bill & Jill I, II, and III" [Jill Lewis, soloist]. Bill's music and words attuned to peace and justice issues have been a companion to services and reflection moments since then. Bill lives on in so many ways for so many and for me through his work. Alleluia, he has been raised!
Jinny Marting
May 24, 2012
Dear Roddy, Please accept my deepest condolences. Whenever I visited my mother at her condo in Burlington, I always enjoyed seeing you and Bill. His wisdom and kindness were his calling cards. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this sorrowful time.
May 24, 2012
CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS FOR ALL OF YOU
JOE HALPIN
Robert Kippley
May 24, 2012
He will be deeply missed. Always welcomed his insights.
Christy Callaghan
May 19, 2012
Aunt M.F.,
You encouraged my love for the arts in 1967 when you took me to the Bolshoi Ballet at Lincoln Center and on another occasion to On The Waterfront. At that time you were the only family member I trusted. It was a confusing time of social and political unrest and you made me feel safe. Bill was as inspiring as you and I've always admired the life you shared together. You have my deepest sympathy and much love. please contact me at [email protected].
Leo McIlrath
May 18, 2012
Mary Francis & Bill's Family:
What a gift you have had! We thank you for sharing him for a while with us at FCM and CORPUS. We will rejoice w/ you when we see him again.
Love and prayers,
Leo and Dianne McIlrath,
Sandy Hook, CT
JOHN SHEEHAN
May 17, 2012
Dear Roddy,
We mourn with you over your great loss.
We always looked forward to talking with Bill at Corpus Conferences. Bill's book about prayers in the garden & from animals was always one of our favorites. We shared a good laugh with Bill the day Maureen asked him if he enjoyed gardening & Bill smiled & said he didn't have a garden :)
Bill was a wonderful priest, husband, father, & friend. We will miss him.
R.I.P.,
John & Maureen Sheehan
Southampton, MA.
May 17, 2012
Dear Roddy and Family, Blessings on you all as you continue the journey without Bill. He was an inspiration to those of us behind him. Phyllis Zagano
May 17, 2012
Roddy,
Our deepest sympathies to you and the family on Bill's death. You are an unforgetable couple and gave much joy at many FCM gatherings. Nancy and I cannot think of Burlington without thinking of the two of you and your complementing charisms. May all God's blessing be on you, Bill and the family.
With love, Joe and Nancy Ruane
May 17, 2012
Dear Roddy & Family;
No words can ever express the humanity and love of God that Bill extended to me. As a Unitarian Christian minister... Bill gave me direction and a path to follow.... My sincere condolences to the Cleary family... Ed Knight, FCM & Unitarian Christian Church of the Americas
Paul Stubenbort
May 15, 2012
Bill always followed his dream, and continued the ministry he began with so many years ago. A good and vibrant life.
Paul and Pat Stubenbort
Federation of Christian Ministries
May 15, 2012
Dear "Roddy" & family,
Bill will always be remembered for one
of his writings " The black Pope "...
what insight.
I will remember you all in my prayers.
Lee & Christine Rousseau
David & Susie McFeeters
May 14, 2012
Dear Roddy and Family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Even now, Bill is most certainly smiling as always!
Mary Jane and Joe McCool
May 14, 2012
Roddy- Our appreciation of Bill and his poetry is boundless, and we send our love to you and your family. We recall Bill's homily at the Corpus Conference in Providence in 2007: he spoke of "Hope and Forgiveness" in such a memorable way. He created a picture in that homily of sitting with a friend in his last moments,playing piano and singing "Dies Irae" and "Zippidy Doo-Dah". The first thought that came to mind when I heard of his passing was to sing that line... "Zippidy Doo-Dah" to you Bill. "My o my what wonderful days" you gave us all. Your gifts are remembered with a smile.
KAISER
BOB KAISER
May 14, 2012
I mourn Bil's passing. He was a man of heart and wit. ROBERT BLAIR KAISER
James McCarthy
May 14, 2012
To the family of Bill Cleary: I am praying my way through several works by Bill. Currently I am praying with Bill's book "Prayers To an Evolutionary God". I can only express my thanks to Bill through you. He was terrific. Thank you for being his support through the years.
May 14, 2012
Dear Roddy and Family,
Sending Deepest Sympathy from myself and The Federation of Christian Ministries.
Antoinette Marold, Chairperson
Federation of Christian Ministries
Ron and Sheila Ingalls
May 14, 2012
Dear Roddy, Sheila and I remember Bill with smiles and great fondness. We offer you our deepest sympathies and send you love and spiritual energy. Bill has left a legacy in history and print and song. But his life is the oneness where the encounter goes on. Peace!
Ron and Sheila Ingalls
May 11, 2012
Roddy and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I had met you in the past when Terri was with you and in the Burlington area. May he rest in peace. Thank you for all that Bill and yourself has done for the Burlington area and your selfless acts to help those in need. Jeannette Jones
Stu Burroughs
May 11, 2012
Bill was instrumental in our Green Mountain Habitat Affiliate activities for many many years, starting with the earliest builds. He created a song we sing at each dedication. We are so thankful for Bill, Roddy and their many contributions over the years. May the family know the peace he helped bring to our Partner Homeowners. -Stu Burroughs, Board President
Adrianne Carr
May 11, 2012
Dear Roddy, Our hearts are with you. When we first came to town, you and Bill were there to greet us. Bill got me involved in planning for First Night Service and had Neil singing with him at BHR. He was an irrepressible imp with a deep sense of faith. We will miss him.
Peace to you and your family,
Adrianne and Neil
Friederike Keating
May 10, 2012
Bill emailed me a poem once. It was about a sailor, and, yes, it was irreverant. He also gave me a book he wrote, "The Jesuit's Escape", and he was always working on more. He usually had his own agenda and endured mine with patience and a smile in his eyes. Thank you, Bill and Roddy, for teaching me about what really counts. Thank you, Bill, for that wonderful last letter you wrote to me, a few months back, full of understanding and courage.
Friederike
Carol Fournier
May 10, 2012
Bill's presence and fine spirit of joy was a blessing that lives on in many hearts. I'll always remember his kindness and his joyful presence that spoke of a living spirituality. His songs surely continue today among the Angels. Roddy, Tom and Neil prayers for blessing and healing during this time of loss and celebration of a life well lived!
Glenn Taulton
May 10, 2012
Tom;
I am sorry to hear about the passing of your father.
My heartfelt simpathies are with you.
Blessings to all of your family.
Rachel Stampul
May 10, 2012
Many blessings on this transition, Roddy. My thoughts and prayers have been with you this last week. What a wonderful obit. Truly a life well lived! Blessings on you both as you have blessed so many!
Love,
Rachel
Rev. Leigh McCaffrey
May 9, 2012
Bill touched my life when I was a very young teenager. His depth and spirituality impressed me, even though I couldn't name what it was I admired. He has joined a great cloud of witnesses...
June M. Schulte
May 9, 2012
My heart is right there with you, Roddy. Prayers ensuing.
Ken and Jean Wolvington
May 9, 2012
We were greatly saddened to learn of Bill's passing. He will be long remembered for his beautiful music, his creative spiritual writings and, of course, his joyful presence. Our most sincere condolences to Roddy, Tom and Neil.
Liz Graham
May 9, 2012
I feel honored to have known Bill. He told me a story once about his love for his beautiful wife, Roddy. He told me that early one morning he put on some music and when she came downstairs he took her and began to dance with her. He began to cry and said that it still felt like their first dance. A truly lovely story from a truly lovely man, who at that moment gave me a glimps of what true love looks like.
Joanna Cole
May 9, 2012
Dear Roddy & Family,
Ahh, we will miss the twinkle in his eyes, the wit on his tongue, the music of his soul, the passion of his justise and so much more.
God bless you all.
Peace. Joanna Cole & Sarah Flynn
Patricia Lyon-Surrey
May 9, 2012
Thinking of you Roddy, and remembering how you and Bill supported Roger and me when we needed it.
Garrison Nelson
May 9, 2012
Sadness at his passing but he had a wonderful and full life. Bill and Roddy are two of the major reasons why Burlington is one of the nation's most livable cities.
May 8, 2012
Bill will be missed by all who knew him.My condolences go out to the family. During this emotional time may Gods words comfort you.For God is close to those who are crushed in spirit and broken at heart....Isaiah 57:15.
David Gawlik
May 8, 2012
We honor the talent, ministry, and compassion of an author, musician and "all round good guy." You will be remembered whenever we think of "greatness" and "service."
Roddy, thanks for caring for Bill during his failing health.
I wish I could be at the memorial service - know I am there is spirit.
Chip Patullo
May 8, 2012
I will carry Bill in my heart and songs as long as I live. I remember him playing carols piano when my son (then 9) on violin at the church open Christmas breakfast. Always a clever wit and big hearted!
Steve Butler
May 8, 2012
Wonderful Christian, fabulous friend and great raquetball player! Bill will always be one of the Great Lights of my life!
Jason Farrell
May 8, 2012
I had a chance to appear on stage with Bill many years ago. Even as a young man, Bill's wit, humor and grace left an impression on me. As I grew older, I came to learn more about Bill's life; a life filled with purpose and love for those around him. I feel quite blessed for having met him. Much love to the entire Cleary family.
May 8, 2012
We admired Bill very much. He was one of the most creative and kindly people we knew. .... a man of passion for justice.
Ann & Bill Powers
Paula Fives-Taylor
May 8, 2012
As long as even one person remembers him, he lives on. Roddy thanks for the opportunity to know and love him. Paula
Julie Trottier
May 8, 2012
Roddy, I was so sad to read of Bill's passing in the Free Press this morning. He was such a treasure. All my best to you and your sons during this fragile time. Take good care.
May 8, 2012
Roddy,
We are thinking of you. I will try to get to Bill's memorial, after my bread route on Saturday.
The obituary must leave out many of Bill's accomplishments, but it seems to capture his essence very well.
Hugs from Tom Joslin
Lea Terhune
May 8, 2012
God speed, Bill. Love to you Roddy.
May 8, 2012
Roddy & Family,
I was so sorry to read about Bill. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Chuck & Betty Cerasoli
DAVID CALL
May 8, 2012
SO SORRY FOR LOST SIGN DAVID P CALL
Showing 1 - 51 of 51 results
Make a Donation
in WILLIAM CLEARY's name
Memorial Events
for WILLIAM CLEARY
How to support WILLIAM's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor WILLIAM CLEARY's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
