William J. Meighan
WWII Army Veteran, Bronze Star Recipient
BILLERICA -- William (Billy) J. Meighan, 96, passed away on March 9th, at the Life Care Center of Merrimack Valley in Billerica.
He was born in Wilkes-Barre, PA on January 29th, 1917 to the late John and Nora (McGowan) Meighan. He was predeceased by five brothers and sisters, by his wife of 61 years, Kathryn (Tooty) in 2002, and by his son-in-law, William Farley in 2003.
He graduated from Hanover High School Wilkes-Barre class of 1934, and later served in World War II as a first sergeant in the European Theater. He was proudly awarded a Bronze Star for his service.
After the war, Bill moved to the Philadelphia area where he and his family resided for over 40 years. He worked as a self-employed masonry contractor during that time.
Bill was also a fourth degree Knights of Columbus member and a volunteer for many church and community organizations. He greatly enjoyed summer trips with family to the Jersey Shore.
Upon retirement, Bill and Tooty moved back to Wilkes-Barre and remained there until her passing. He then relocated to Billerica, MA where he resided with his granddaughter, Kathy Devlin, her husband, Joe and family. Following which, he went to Life Care where he resided for the past eight years. "Beeb" as his family and friends knew him was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His family was his world.
Survivors include his daughter, Mary Meighan Farley of Pfafftown, NC; two granddaughters, Kathy Devlin and her husband, Joe of Billerica, MA, Shawn Brier and her husband, Chris of St. Albans, VT, and two great-grandchildren, Tricia and Matthew Devlin.
Thank you to Kathy and Joe for all of their constant love and care, as well as to all of his caregivers and special friends at Life Care Center of Merrimack Valley. Bill had a special place in his heart for his roommate and dear friend, James Lefave, as well as his friend, Robert, a friend in faith and a proud World War II Veteran.
MEIGHAN -- Of Billerica, March 9, William (Billy) J. Meighan, At Mr. Meighan's request, all arrangements were held privately. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 75817, Topeka, KS 66675. Interment will be held in St. Mary's Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre, PA. Arrangements under the care of the Sweeney Memorial Funeral Home, Billerica and the Nat and Gawlas Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre, PA. www.sweeneymemorialfh.com
|
Published in Lowell Sun on Mar. 15, 2013
|
Read More
|
