William H. Frye Jr.

William H. Frye Jr., of Holbrook, formerly of Dorchester, a cherished family man, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. Born on December 13, 1936, in Dorchester, William's life was characterized by a steadfast dedication to his family, his career, and his community.
William, fondly known as "Bill" to his friends, was the beloved husband of the late Barbara (Gentleman) Frye. He was the son of the late William H. Frye Sr. and Margaret (McHugh) Frye. Bill is survived by his brother, Richard E. Frye and his wife, Edith, of Braintree, and his sister, Dorothy Drake, and her husband, Robert, of Dunlap, Illinois. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Linda Boothroyd, of Brighton. William spent his formative years at Cathedral High School in Boston, where he graduated before going on to earn an associate's degree from Boston Clerical School.
Bill's life was enriched when he met Barbara M. Gentleman, the love of his life, at a high school dance. The two later married in 1960 and embarked on a remarkable journey together, raising eight children in Holbrook, Massachusetts. Their union, which lasted 58 years until Barbara's passing in 2018, was a testament to their unwavering love and dedication to family. He was a loving father of Maryrose Frye-Toma and her husband Robert of Braintree, Douglas M. Frye and his wife Anne of Marshfield, Christopher C. Frye and his wife Michelle of Abington, Carl D. Frye and his wife Michelle Dominico-Frye of Wendell, NC, Laura J. Messina and her husband John of Holbrook, Jennifer N. Cametti-English and her husband Scott of Marshfield, Marcia A. Felix and her husband Fabio of Foxborough, and the late Eric W. Frye. He will be remembered as "Papa" to his 16 grandchildren-Erica and her husband Greg, Griffin, Megan and her husband Joe, Alec, Jack, Madison, Matthew, Taylor, Nicholas, Nicolle, Will, Dominique, Monet, Aidan, Hudson-and the late Bridgette. The title "Papa" extended to his great-grandchildren Teddy, Ollie, and Maverick. He will also be missed by many nieces and nephews.
Upon completing his education, Bill served his country in the Army Reserves, a testament to his sense of duty and patriotism. He was a man who prided himself on his strong work ethic, often holding multiple jobs to support his family. His 23-year tenure at John Hancock, where he sold insurance, showcased his dedication and resilience. Bill also sold men's suits at Gilchrist Department Store in Boston, MA, and cemetery plots for Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton. His dedication to providing for his family was further evident as he worked for Hennessy News in Holbrook. Within all his careers, his commitment to St. Joseph's Church extended to volunteering at St. Joseph's School, where he ran bingo games to support his children's education.
An avid sports fan and athlete, Bill was one of the founders of the Holbrook soccer program. His love for baseball led him to coach numerous teams, and his talent was recognized when he was selected to play for the Boston Park League during his high school years. He was a constant presence at all his children's and grandchildren's sporting events and activities, always their biggest fan.
Bill's interests went beyond sports; he was an avid reader with a passion for history. Bill's curiosity and love of history kept him reading, exploring, and sharing stories with those around him. Golf was one of his favorite pastimes, along with his many favorite lunch outings and enjoying the simple pleasures of life, always with stories and laughter.
Described by those who knew him as loving, kind, and endlessly generous, Bill had a natural gift for making people feel valued and welcomed. His caring smile, humor, and genuine interest in others brightened every room he entered. Whether through a conversation, a helping hand, or a simple shared laugh, Bill touched countless lives and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy will live on through the many lives he influenced, the community he helped shape, and the loving family he raised. William H. Frye Jr. will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished forever.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Sunday, November 9th, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at Cartwright Funeral Home, 69 South Franklin St. (RT 37), Holbrook. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 10th, at 9:30 AM at St. Joseph's Church, 153 South Franklin St., Holbrook. Burial will follow at Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton.
Forever in our hearts.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.