Photo courtesy of Byles Memorial Home - New London
New London, Connecticut
Aug 12, 1950 – Jul 19, 2025
Old Mystic- William Edgar Tessier, 74, passed away July 19, 2025 at Beechwood Health and Rehabilitation Center in New London. Born in Woonsocket, RI, August 12, 1950, the son of Edgar O. and Wilma (Chandler) Tessier.
He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Joyce (Stiles) Tessier, daughter Ashlee Tessier, son Matthew Tessier (Miriam) and granddaughter Rebecca; two sisters Elaine Costello (Bob) and Terri Seebeck; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a sister Kay King.
Bill graduated from Three Rivers Community College and Empire State College through their Distance Learning Program. He began his career as a volunteer firefighter with the City of Groton in 1968, appointed a firefighter for the City of Norwich in 1973, promoted to Captain in 1990 and Deputy Chief in 1997. After retirement in 2004, Bill was also an Adjunct Professor at Three Rivers Community College in the Fire Tech program and a senior instructor at the Connecticut State Fire Academy.
Funeral arrangements are private. Please visit www.byles.com to share a condolence with the family.
Donations in William’s name may be made to the Make a Wish Foundation, 56 Commerce Drive, Trumbull, CT 06611 or Empire State College, 2 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Read MoreBill indeed Joyce's best friend. I found him to be kind, caring and so knowledgeable in his field. Love to the Tessier family, Ellie Roy
Ellie Roy
August 04, 2025
Bill was one of the finest instructors that I encountered in the fire service. His classes were both a learning experience and fun. A fine man who left us too soon.
Wayne Gilpin
August 02, 2025 | Waterford, CT | Student
Elaine and Terri, I´m so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. So many Brandegee Ave memories are flooding me. Sending my love and support to you and Bill´s family.
Linda Tansey Eldridge
July 31, 2025 | Friend
Joyce and family, I am very sorry for your loss. Yours truly, Bill Shannon
Bill Shannon
July 30, 2025 | School
Hi Joyce: I knew Bill from the CT Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, Region 4 Office. We worked together in the Colchester Troop K Barracks. Bill and I had many fun times working together. He always brought in some of Joyce's Cookies whenever there was a party at Troop K. He shared many memories of working with the Fire Service as well. Bill will be missed. I pray for peace and comfort for the family.
Darlene Richards
July 30, 2025 | Colchester, CT | Coworker
Joyce - Ed and I were so sorry to read about Bill's passing. The two of you made such a great couple - always interested in people and having fun. No one could keep up with your collective wit and energy. We are sure you are surrounded by many super friends and family who will be your support system at this time. Take care. Hopefully our paths will cross again soon.
Ellen and Ed D.
Ellen Dieckerhoff
July 29, 2025 | Groton Long Point, CT | Friend
Dear Aunt Joyce, Matthew, Ashlee and families, my sincere condolences for the passing of Uncle Bill. I have only ever heard great stories of you both in my husband's (Mike/Chad) life growing up. Thank you for that. With love and sympathy, Lori
Lori King
July 29, 2025 | NY | Family
Worked with Bill at Engine 2 (Greenville Station) for about 3yrs great partner my condolences go out to his family
Michael Doyle
July 28, 2025 | Jewett City, CT | Friend
Dear Joyce and Family, I have the best memories of Bill and you Joyce. Always two of my favorite patients in the dental office. My deepest condolences. Marianne
Marianne Burton
July 27, 2025 | Friend
