William Holliday

WESTERLY - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of William 'Billy' Holliday, 71, of Westerly, Rhode Island, on December 17, 2025. Billy was a beloved dad, husband, partner, brother, and above all, a friend to anyone he crossed paths with.

Born and raised in Westerly, RI, William was deeply rooted in the community he loved. He was part of the legacy of his family's restaurant, Happy Holliday's, located on Granite Street - a place many in the Westerly community remember fondly. After the restaurant closed, Billy went on to become the Catering Director at McQuade's for many years, where he was known for making families' special moments come to life. Countless celebrations were shared over Billy's cooking.

At the same time, Billy worked as a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker for many years, helping families create new memories and build their lives. That was him - creating the big moments in ways people never forgot, even without realizing it.

Billy loved traveling with his partner, Judy, often saying, 'I'll go anywhere as long as she's there.' Some of his fondest memories were visiting his children while they studied abroad, traveling together as a family.

If he wasn't with his beloved Judy or his kids, a typical day in the life of Billy included work, and stops at his favorite places: Junk n Java, Dog Watch Cafe, The North End Club, the Calabrese Club, the Westerly Yacht Club, The Andrea, and many other local businesses. His favorite friends were the staff and patrons of these places, and it was his mission to make sure he was friends with every single one of them.

With a personality that lit up a room, Billy was truly one of a kind. He was a friend to everyone - whether someone he had just met or someone he had known his entire life. People gravitated toward him for advice, comfort, a good laugh, and friendship. He was always the life of the party, with a laugh that filled every room.

William's greatest legacy is his children, Katelynn and Connor, who were the center of his world.

William is survived by his partner, Judy Colucci; his children, Katelynn and Connor Holliday; their mother, Shelly Holliday; and his brothers, Michael and Tim Holliday. He was predeceased by his sister, Donna Holliday, and his parents, William and Ruth Holliday.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, December 23, from 4:00-7:00 PM at Buckler-Johnston Funeral Home, 121 Main Street, Westerly, RI. A celebration of life will follow in the spring, on April 26th, at The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar.

To the staff at Westerly Hospital - Billy considered each and every one of you his dearest friends, and our family will forever be grateful for the love and care you showed him. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Westerly Hospital.

Please share any photos of William with our family by emailing katelynnholliday@gmail.com.

For online condolences, please visit www.buckler-johnston.com