William J. Cassidy III

I was surfing the internet and thought to look up my old friend, only to find that he was gone. William J. Cassidy III. Bill - He was my closest friend at Bates College; we were roommates in our sophomore year. I was an acerbic New Yorker, ready with a wise crack. He had the laid back, west coast vibe. We were a good fit; so, naturally, we formed a band. We needed a bass player. Bill had never played bass; nevertheless, he purchased one from the local music shop in Lewiston Maine and...

I was a student of Bill's 20 years ago. He was so kind, so erudite, so zen. He actually took one of my papers and suggested I turn it into a thesis, which I later did, just a few years too late. There are few days he doesn't cross my mind, just a little. It is my fondest hope to continue the Great Conversation with him in the world to come.

Bill and I served together on the AAR Board of Directors. He was a great encourager, a generous friend, and a wise man. I only recently learned he had passed. May he rest in peace and may his family be comforted.

How very sad. I am a doctoral student in your father's field and I have just read a book by him and came online to send him an email or FB message to ask a question about a footnote of his... and found that he has died. God Bless him and those who love him - The Rev Canon David Greenwood, Anglican Church of Canada

Billy was a wonderful man; intelligent and wise, kind and with a terrific sense of humor. Over the years of our acquaintance, which dates to the early 70"s, he went from being my friend's brother to being my friend. We shared many dinners and other experiences, and i enjoyed his company so much. He was taken from us too soon, and I can hardly believe I won;t see him again. My most sincere condolences to his family.

In the past few years I saw Billy only once a year, but it was an event I looked forward to. Billy was engaging and he always had something thoughtful and genuine to say. Sympathetic and loving, one could only consider him a long time friend. Memories of our times spent together are cherished. He embodied the best of what good people are made of.

great friend and the twinkle in his eyes

I only knew Billy for 7 or 8 years, but he made me feel like I knew him a lifetime. He was so kind, warm, funny and intelligent. I loved our conversations. He really understood life and wanted to share his joy and love with all.
Barbara Slade

With love...