Timothy N. Root

Timothy Nicholas Root, 80, passed peacefully at his home in Milford on February 16, 2026, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer, surrounded by his loving family.

Tim was born on January 28, 1946, in Rome, New York to Stephen E. Root and Mary Nicolas Root. He spent his formative years in Winchester, where his childhood energy and knack for mischief earned him the enduring neighborhood nickname “Timmy the Terrible.”

He attended the University of Arizona, graduating in 1968 with a degree in History. Following graduation, Tim answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. He became a pilot with the HM-12 Squadron, flying Sikorsky SH-3 and CH-53E helicopters. He served with distinction in two tours overseas in Vietnam and Egypt. In 1981, he transitioned from active duty to the Navy Reserve, continuing his service until his honorable discharge in 1992. He retired with the rank of Commander, a testament to his leadership and dedication.

Following his military career, Tim embarked on a successful career in the defense industry, spending the majority of his professional life at BAE Systems, which he joined in 1979. His work brought him back to New England after living across the US, where he resided in Londonderry, Merrimack, and ultimately Milford, New Hampshire. Throughout his career, he also lived in Arizona, Washington, and New York. While working full time, Tim earned his Master of Business Administration from Rivier College in 1985.

Education remained a lifelong passion. Beginning in 2007, Tim taught night courses in business at Rivier, and after retiring from BAE in 2011, he continued as an adjunct professor. He found great fulfillment in mentoring and teaching the next generation of business leaders until 2018, when he proudly “passed the torch.”

Above all, Tim was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Judith Johnson Root; his sons and their wives, Darrin and Holly Root of Manchester, New Hampshire and Peter and Kelly Root of Windham, NH, as well as his four cherished grandchildren, Nicholas, Katelyn, Jane, and Willa. He is also survived by his sisters, Nancy Roberts and Julie Woodward. Tim took immense pride in supporting his children and grandchildren in all their activities and accomplishments.

A talented multi-instrument musician, Tim loved playing the piano, especially Ragtime, and had an affinity for Irish folk songs. He was an avid golfer and a lifelong, passionate fan of the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, and New England Patriots. He had a voracious appetite for reading—often juggling three books at once—and could frequently be found relaxing with a well-aged bourbon or a fine Irish whiskey. Tim also enjoyed genealogy and researching ancestors in the British Isles dating back to the 1400's.

In lieu of flowers, Tim requested that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the ASPCA, causes close to his heart.

A service will be held later this spring, with details to follow, to celebrate Tim’s life in view of Mount Monadnock—a fitting and peaceful setting where he requested his ashes be set free.

Tim will be remembered for his service, intellect, humor, steady leadership, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.