William E. "Bill" Gonyea Jr.

William E. Gonyea, Jr., of Burlington, North Carolina, 79, passed away December 27, 2024 at the Veterans Hospital in Durham, NC. Born in Providence, RI, he was the son of the late William E. Gonyea, Sr. and Ernestine R. Gonyea of Pascoag, RI.
Bill proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1965 to 1967 aboard the aircraft carrier Naval ship, the USS Independence, as a marine mechanic. After traveling the world and living briefly in Florida, New York, Ohio and Massachusetts, Bill settled down in his beloved hometown of Burrillville and worked for many years as a bartender at Wright's Farm Restaurant in RI and the Coachman Restaurant in Bellingham, MA. Bill's greatest joys in life were his treasured pet schnauzers, Willie and Gia. He also loved sharing his home at the Lake (affectionately called "the camp") with his large family and friends, especially for the memorable 4th of July celebrations. The hot summer days of swimming, fishing, boating and campfires were enjoyed by so many loved ones throughout the years! Upon retirement, Bill moved to Burlington, NC in search of warmer weather and Carolina's blue skies. Bill remained steadfast in his love of God, family and country. He had a passion for classical music, the arts, knowledge of current affairs and camping and boating remained dear to his heart,
In addition to his cherished mother Ernestine, Bill is survived by eight siblings: sister Yvette Zannini and her husband Joseph of High Point, NC; sister Arlene (Gonyea) Moore of Pascoag, RI; sister Karen Zekanoski and her husband Mark of Millville, MA; sister Jacqueline Rambone and her late husband Frank of Pascoag, RI; brother Jeffrey Gonyea and his wife Diane of Pascoag, RI; sister Denise Young and her husband Daniel of Grosvenordale, CT; sister Michelle (Gonyea) Keegan of Pascoag, RI and brother Joseph Gonyea and his wife Lynn of Pascoag, RI. He is also survived by 21 nieces and nephews, 35 great nieces and nephews, a great-great niece and nephew and many cousins as well.
His funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at
11:00 AM in St. Joseph's Church, 183 Sayles Ave., Pascoag, RI, immediately followed by burial with Military Honors at St. Patrick's Cemetery, Emerson Rd., Harrisville, RI 02830.
www.boucherfh.com