William Carpenter

William "Bill" Carpenter, 66, of Plainfield, passed away on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Backus Hospital after a long illness. Bill was the beloved fiancé of Linda Greczkowski, a devoted partner who stood faithfully by his side through every moment. He was a cherished son, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, teammate, coach, and friend to many.

Born in Norwich, Connecticut, on October 19, 1959, Bill was the son of the late William Carpenter and Patricia Carpenter. He was the proud father of Ashley Carpenter, the late Ryan Carpenter, and Wesley Carpenter, along with Wesley's wife, Gina Liggiero. He was a loving brother to Alan (Heidi) Carpenter of Brooklyn, Paul (Robin) Carpenter of Plainfield, Brenda (Bradley) Cohen of Plainfield, and Lisa Jankowski of Plainfield. Bill was also a devoted and loving grandfather to granddaughters Karsyn and Rory, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A lifelong resident of Plainfield, Bill's roots in the community ran deep.

From an early age, Bill displayed remarkable athletic talent. Guided by his parents' encouragement, he embraced sports with enthusiasm and natural ability-"like a duck to water." He excelled as a three-sport athlete throughout his youth, shining in Plainfield Little League, Plainfield REC and school basketball, and Plainfield Rams football. His skill, competitiveness, and leadership carried through into high school, where he became known for his unwavering dedication to athletics.

But it was baseball that captured his heart and shaped his legacy. As a shortstop and power hitter for Plainfield High School, Bill performed with near perfection, earning a reputation as one of the area's most respected and gifted players. His work ethic and leadership inspired teammates, coaches, and generations of younger players who followed in his footsteps.

After graduating from Plainfield High School, Bill attended Brandeis University from 1978 to 1982, earning a History degree while excelling on the baseball field. His achievements were later recognized with an induction into the Brandeis Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010.

In the summer of 1981, he competed in the prestigious Cape Cod Baseball League, playing for the Hyannis Mets.

Following his senior season at Brandeis, Bill was drafted by the Boston Red Sox, spending two seasons in their farm system before a shoulder injury ended his professional career. Even so, he left a lasting mark-during his 1982 season with the Elmira, NY Red Sox, he was selected as a Fan Favorite, celebrated for his outgoing nature, optimism, and infectious smile.

In the summer of 1982 Bill also became the only local player to play in the MLB Hall of Fame Game when MLB invited Bill's Single-A Elmira team to participate in the Game due to the MLB players 'strike' that year.

Returning to northeastern Connecticut after his MLB career, Bill continued to play for many years in the Norwich City League with the Al Abrahams-sponsored team, leading them to numerous championships.

Bill then transitioned naturally into coaching, guiding his son Ryan and many of his teammates through Brooklyn Little League and Moosup American Legion Baseball. He shared his deep knowledge of the sport while helping young men discover perseverance, character, and confidence-lessons that extended well beyond the diamond.

Professionally, Bill spent most of his career in the insurance industry working initially for the Byrnes Insurance Agency and then finally many years with Gerardi Insurance Services, where he built lasting relationships with clients and coworkers. His warmth, professionalism, and loyalty made him not just a trusted advisor, but a true friend to many.

Beyond sports and work, Bill was known for his hospitality, humor, loyalty, and generous spirit. He had a rare gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and at ease-whether at family gatherings, on the field, or in everyday life. He loved deeply, lived fully, and touched countless lives with his kindness and unwavering positivity.

Bill's family and friends will forever hold him in their hearts and find comfort in the memories he leaves behind.

Family and friends are invited to visit the Dougherty Brothers Funeral Home, 595 Norwich Rd., Plainfield, CT for visitation on Saturday, February 7th from 10am to 12pm. A Celebration of Life will follow at the American Legion in Moosup, CT.

Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.