William Libby

1939 - 2017

William Libby, 77 of Manchester, husband of Judith C. (Brace) Libby passed away suddenly on Sunday February 5, 2017 at ST. Francis Hospital Hartford. Bill was born in Hartford on September 16, 1939 son of Fred W. and Henriette (Gaucher) Libby and was a lifelong resident of Manchester. Bill was a member of the first graduating class of the "new" Manchester High School in 1957. He was a proud member of the United States Coast Guard during the 1960s when his ship was called to Cuba during the missile crisis. Bill often tells of receiving hazardous duty pay of $15.00 a month for his underwater welding work. He received an outstanding education in Electronic and Telephone Communications at Avery Point in Groton, CT. with course work at the Coast Guard Academy. Bill's electrical and communications career began at Southern New England Telephone Company that later became AT&T. He retired from AT&T with almost 30 years of service. After retiring, Bill began a small antiques business that employed his skills in restoring old houses, furniture and cars. He and wife, Judy, traveled extensively where Bill was always on the look - out for special finds that could be brought home and refurbished or repurposed. He developed large collections especially of telephone memorabilia. Bill especially enjoyed snowmobiling, cutting wood and other outdoor activities in Vermont where he had a circle of tremendous friends. Bill is survived by his wife, Judy, whom he met in high school when he was sixteen. Bill's family includes son Jeffrey Libby, his wife Kristina and their children Shane, Maxwell and Isla of Manchester. Son Christopher Libby, his children Michael and Emma, the children's mother and Chris' best friend, MaryAnn of Ellington. Daughter Leslie Furlong of Manchester and James Furlong beloved father of their children of Glastonbury. Their children are James Furlong of Coventry CT and Elizabeth Zerio and husband Anthony and their children Jonathan and Emily of Holliston, MA . Bill also leaves his brother Richard Libby and wife Marie of Manassas, VA and several nieces, nephews and their families. Bill has had wonderful friendships in his life for whom we will always be thankful. Funeral services will be on Monday, February 13, at 11:00 a.m. at Watkins Funeral Home, 142 East Center Street Manchester. Burial with military honors will be in East Cemetery. Friends and family may call Sunday, February 12 from 2 - 5 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Heart Association PO Box 417005 Boston, MA 02241-417005 or to Birthday Wishes, an organization that brings birthday parties to homeless children. Birthday wishes PO Box 590645 Newton Centre, MA 02459 or to a charity of one's choice. To leave a message for his family please visit www.holmes-watkinsfuneralhomes.com