William Cobb MD

Dr. William Cobb, a distinguished endocrinologist, devoted physician, and lifelong lover of nature, passed away at age 80 on January 17, 2026, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton. With over more than five decades in medicine, Dr. Cobb provided compassionate, attentive care to countless patients, forming lasting relationships built on trust and kindness. Outside of his medical practice, he found joy spending time in nature and with his beloved family, who were always at the center of his life.

Dr. Cobb was board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. He practiced across New England and South Shore Hospitals throughout his career, including Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Needham, Signature Healthcare Brockton Hospital, Quincy Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Rhode Island Hospital, and South Shore Hospital. He completed his career at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Milton, retiring in 2022.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Cobb specialized in the treatment of diabetes, thyroid disorders, and metabolic conditions. He was recognized for his contributions to prestigious journals such as The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism and The American Journal of Medicine. He also gave lectures at Brown University.

Dr. Cobb was a brilliant physician with a compassionate presence who treated his patients like family. He was widely admired for his thoroughness, his patience in explaining diagnoses and treatment options, and his commitment to involving patients as active partners in their care. Despite an exceptionally demanding schedule, he never made an appointment feel rushed, and his genuine dedication to each patient's well-being was evident in every interaction.

Dr. Cobb cherished his home in Canton, which he shared with his wife, Gail, and found great joy in the outdoors that surrounded it. He could often be seen walking or jogging along "Maple Tree Lane" at the Ponkapoag Golf Course, circling Ponkapoag Pond, or making his way to Houghton's Pond. He especially loved climbing to the top of what he lovingly referred to as "Big Blue" in the Blue Hills Reservation. He always loved a view, whether standing atop a mountain or gazing out over the water at a beach. Closer to home, he was often found strolling around his yard, happily whistling as he went, a memorable reflection of his peaceful contentment.

Dr. Cobb had a deep love for his dogs, who brought him companionship and joy throughout his life. His first dogs, Guillaume (named in his honor) and Koozie, held a special place in his heart and were treasured family members. In later years, Amber and Bruin continued that legacy, filling his days with happiness, laughter, and comfort. His bond with his dogs reflected his gentle spirit, patience, and capacity for unconditional love.

Dr. Cobb was preceded in death by his beloved wife of many years, Gail Ruth (Craig) Cobb, who passed away on November 9, 2017, after a short battle with cancer. He is survived by his daughters and their spouses, Alicia Leeds and Choro Leslie Meyers, and Monica and Jesse Bautista; his stepdaughter, Wendy Deane, and her husband, John; and his stepson, Scott Stirling, and his wife, Kelli. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Isabelle Ashista and her husband Henry Ashista, Jack Bautista, and William Bautista; Nicholas McDonough; and Seamus, Katelyn, and Megan Stirling; his sister, Dorothy Walsh and her husband Bob Mader; his sister- and brother-in-law, Dotty and Steve Craig; his brother- and sister-in-law, Jeff and Marcia Craig, and his sister-in-law Pam Craig.

Relatives and Friends are respectfully invited to attend a visitation from 4:00pm to 7:00pm Friday January 23, 2026 at Hamel-Lydon Chapel, 650 Hancock St, Quincy. A time of remembrance will be held at 9:30am Saturday January 24, 2026 at Hamel-Lydon Chapel with interment immediately following at Mount Wollaston Cemetery, Quincy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in honor of Dr. Cobb to Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes, formerly the Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF).

Arrangements under the compassionate care of Hamel-Lydon Chapel, Quincy. For information or to leave an online condolence message please visit HamelLydon.com