William H. Taft Sr.

William H. Taft Sr.
1934 - 2025
Hampden
William H. Taft, Sr., of Hampden, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the East Longmeadow Skilled Nursing Home, surrounded by his loving family. He was 91 years old. William was born on November 7, 1934, in Long Branch, New Jersey, the son of the late Philip Taft and Willye Tennis Taft. Known as "Ziggy" by many of his oldest friends, he was raised and educated in Monson, Massachusetts. William honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Air Wing Division. He took great pride in his service and carried that sense of duty throughout his life. A lifelong automobile enthusiast, William owned and operated William Taft Antique Car Restoration, where his craftsmanship and attention to detail were widely admired. He also worked for many years as a used car sales manager at local Ford dealerships throughout the area. In addition, William was a proud and dedicated stone mason, and built many beautiful stone fireplaces. He enjoyed many hobbies, especially those centered around classic automobiles, and he cherished time spent with his family. In his later years he was a very devoted caregiver to our mother. In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his wife Dorothy (Alberta) Taft in 2022, four brothers Edwin, Philip, Robert and Alexander Taft and two sisters Lillian Peck and Jacqueline Taft. William is survived by his three sons: William Taft Jr. and his wife Linda of East Longmeadow, MA, Edward Taft and his wife Joan of Somers, CT, and James Porreco of Holyoke, MA. He also leaves his six adored grandchildren, Travis, Brandon, Ryan, Hannah, Kate, and Amanda, and his four great-grandchildren, Rhett, Luna, Rachel, and Olivia, who brought him immense joy. The family would like to thank the VA Hospice staff, the staff at East Longmeadow Skilled Nursing, and Dr. Sanjay Timilsina at Baystate Hospital. All services and burial will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Byron Keenan Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield, Massachusetts 01118.