William H. DiGregorio

William H. DiGregorio, died June 21, 2008 at his home in Port St. Lucie, Florida after a fulfilling life of kindness, generosity, compassion and love at the age of 84. At his side was his longtime companion and caregiver, Gereen O'Grady.

Bill leaves his 5 children, Dr. William DiGregorio of Wales, MA, Patricia Ricci of Pittsfield, MA and her 2 children Aaron and Bethany, Thomas DiGregorio and his wife Teresa of Marietta, GA and his 2 children TJ and Katie, Dr. Philip DiGregorio of Mansfield, CT and Carolyn LeBoeuf and her husband David and their 2 children Chloe and Trevor of Southbridge, MA. Bill also survives the mother of his children and former wife, Madelyn (LaForce) DiGregorio. Bill was predeceased by his son Robbie and his sister Concetta Detarando. Also surviving Bill are his brothers, Albert and his wife Doris DiGregorio, Raymond, Richard and his wife Helen, Leonard and his wife Vivian, Ronald and his wife Dorothy.

Bill was born on July, 17, 1923 in Southbridge MA and lived in Southbridge and Port St. Lucie, FL. He graduated from Mary Wells High School then went to Stanton Military Academy, then finished at the University of Virginia.

He owned and ran a top insurance agency and real estate company but was best known as the Magistrate of the Dudley District Court for over 25 years. He was a member of the Exchange Club, Knights of Columbus and the Italian American Associates.

Bill was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served his country with courage and valor and was recognized for this heroism in saving the life of a downed naval pilot. Bill was an avid yachtsman who enjoyed both sailboats and large motor boats. He was a fine maker of wine for over 35 years and won many wine tasting contests.

Bill was a master joke teller and reveled in making everyone laugh with his limitless well of funny stories and quips and did so until the end. He knew no strangers and will forever be remembered for his compassionate and generous heart and his willingness to go out of his way to help people. Bill loved people and people loved Bill. He will be missed by all.

His funeral will be held on Thursday, June 26, 2008, from the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge, with a Mass at 10:00AM in Notre Dame Church, 446 Main St., Southbridge. Burial at St. Mary's Cemetery will take place at a later date. Calling hours at the funeral home will be held Wednesday from 5:00 – 8:00PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory may be made to the American Heart Association, 20 Speen Street, Framingham, MA 01701

morrillfuneralhome.com