William Mead Obituary
William C. Mead, Sr. died unexpectedly on Monday, February 17, after a traumatic fall. Born in East Orange, NJ on December 14,1932, son of Carmen (Dorticos) and Arthur F. Mead, Sr., Bill was a graduate of Bloomfield HS, University of Vermont and Seton Hall Law school and served honorably in the US Army, 82nd Air Born, during the Korean Conflict from 1952-1954.
Bill practiced Workers' Compensation Law for many years at Gurry, McHugh and Mead, eventually becoming Of Counsel at Leitner, Tort, DeFazio and Brause where he continued to work with joy until the day he died. Respected by his colleagues, Bill was considered a mentor to the many young attorneys who gravitated to "comp law". Bill met Marie Russoniello at school becoming fast friends and from the beginning theirs became a deepening love story that will never end. Married in October 1961, they built a legacy of love shared with family and their many friends. Bill's greatest joy was always spending time with family whether on Chebeague Island, Maine, in Avalon, NJ and the numerous family parties and reunions. An accomplished athlete, he participated for many years in track, skiing, basketball, tennis, golf, outings in their boat, walking on the beach, his travels with Marie and a firm commitment to parish ministry.
Bill was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Barbara Ahlers and brother Arthur F. Mead, Jr,. He is survived by his best friend, Marie, their daughter, Andrea Mead Harbison, sons William C. Mead Jr., (Rebecca), John Mead, (Elizabeth), David (Jennifer), nine grandchildren and two great grand kids whom he adored, many nieces and nephews, dear friends and treasured colleagues. Known for his integrity and mighty work ethic, Bill advocated always for a good humor and a "positive mental attitude."
A wake is scheduled at Moriarty Funeral Home, 76 Park Street, Montclair, NJ on Friday, February 21, 4-8 PM. Funeral Mass to cerebrate Bill's life will be at noon on Saturday, February 22, at Our Lady of the Holy Angels Church, 465 Main Street, Little Falls, NJ. The family requests in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to the parish church in Bill's memory.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Mead Sr., please visit Tribute Store
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Laura (Shattuck) Moreschi
March 14, 2025
Marie and family,
Bill was such a steady presence of our little Chebeague "neighborhood" while I was growing up. I always remember his warm smile and wave as he was working in the yard. I am so sorry for your loss.
savannah mead
March 9, 2025
my dearest grandfather, you will forever be loved. we will meet again. i love you.
Joan Smith
March 3, 2025
Marie, My deepest condolences on the passing of Bill. He was a great son, husband, father and friend. I will hold close to my heart the times we enjoyed life together. I know how difficult it is for you to go on without him and I will keep you in my prayers. Lovingly Joan
Michele Kocotos
February 24, 2025
I´ll never forget how excited Bill would get every time he would see me to say how much he loved driving my dad´s car.
It´s breaks my heart. Sorry I´m in such a bubble and didn´t know.
God bless
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Catherine W. Ryan
February 21, 2025
Dear Marie and family,
Please accept my condolences on the loss of Bill. As you know he was a wonderful man and loved by so many. I know he will live in your hearts and many others forever. Peace, love and blessings! Cathy Ryan
Tommy and Catherine Russoniello
February 20, 2025
We enjoyed our last lunch and walk along the shore with Bill. A day to cherish with a a soft spoken man who relished in telling family stories. May God grant comfort to Marie and family.
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
76 Park Street, Montclair, NJ 07042
Make a Donation
in William Mead's name
People and places connected with William
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support William's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor William Mead's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
