William J Rafferty
William J Rafferty
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Rone Funeral Service - VinelandWilliam Rafferty Obituary
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William Joseph Rafferty, known to many as Bill, of Vineland, NJ, passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 82 after a brief illness. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was raised in Wayne, PA where he attended St. Katherine of Siena School and later graduated from Villanova University with a degree in civil engineering.
His career took many paths working in both the private and public sectors, focusing on his passion, Public Works. He was particularly proud of being Cumberland County Engineer (twice), Atlantic County Engineer and City Engineer for Atlantic City. He was very active in APWA (American Public Works Association) New Jersey Chapter serving the chapter in many positions, including Delegate for the State of NJ at the national level for many years.
Bill served in both the Maryland and New Jersey National Guard. He loved baseball whether watching, coaching or umpiring, which he did for many years. After he became a Master Gardener, he enjoyed growing veggies to share with friends and neighbors. Travel was always important too, and he and Diane enjoyed adventures all over the world.
He is predeceased by his parents, James and Elizabeth (Hofstetter) Rafferty, and his brother, James Rafferty.
Surviving is his wife of 56 years, Helen Diane (Huff) Rafferty; son Tom (Kristin) of Hatboro, PA; daughter Jennifer Dan (Alexander) of Butzbach Hoch-Weisel Germany; and four grandchildren Felix Dan, Aidan Rafferty, Mina Dan, and Morgan Rafferty.
On Saturday, October 11th, a gathering of friends and family will be held at 9:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 201 N 2nd St, Millville, NJ, followed by a memorial service. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the APWA NJ Chapter Scholarship Program, First United Methodist Church Food Pantry, or a charity of your choice.
ARRANGEMENTS are under the supervision of Rone Funeral Service, 1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360
To send online condolences please visit our website at www.RONEFUNERALSERVICE.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Laura Taylor
August 19, 2025
Dear Tom, Jennifer and Mrs. Rafferty,
I was saddened to hear of your family's loss. I remember you all so well from Reber School. Your dad was a kind, gentle and supportive parent and mentor. I will not forget how he treated us when we were part of each other's lives. May you know that he was special and made a lasting impression on me at the beginning of my career in education. Rest in peace Mr. Rafferty.
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1110 East Chestnut Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360
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Upcoming Events
Oct
11
Services provided by
Rone Funeral Service - Vineland