William P. Jepsen

1940 - 2025

William P. Jepsen
November 21, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William "Bill" P. Jepsen on November 21, 2025. Born on December 12, 1940, in Boston, Massachusetts, Bill was the son of the late Carlton and Marjorey (Hayes) Jepsen. He grew up in Milton, MA, attended Boston College High School, and continued his Jesuit education at The College of the Holy Cross, graduating in 1962. He later earned his MBA from Columbia Business School in 1964.
It was during his time at Columbia, in the Crown Room at John Jay Hall, that Bill met the love of his life, Mary (Ripple). The two were married for 55 wonderful years, raising their family in New Canaan, CT, before retiring to Madison and North Branford, CT. Their partnership was the heart of Bill's life-built on shared values, deep affection, and a lifetime of stories.
Bill enjoyed a long and successful career in marketing, beginning at the Maxwell House Division of General Foods and later moving to Schaeffer Beer Company, where he and his friends happily enjoyed the perks that came with the job-ensuring that their Fire Island summers with friends were always well supplied. He went on to serve at American Can Corporation and concluded his career in the paper division of Georgia-Pacific, retiring in 2004. During his time in the paper industry, Bill took special pride in helping support American troops abroad, including arranging donations of essential paper products and supplies for those serving in Iraq.
A loving and devoted father, Bill is survived by his children: Michael Jepsen (Bita Shoku) of Los Angeles, CA; Christine Readlinger (Robert) of Chatham, NJ; Brian Jepsen (Erin) of New Canaan, CT; Paul Jepsen (Michelle) of Oakland, CA; and Kathryn Salerno (Michael) of San Pedro, CA. He was the proud grandfather of Jack, Emma, Ryan, and Chloe Readlinger; Lila and Lucy Jepsen; Dominic and Rocco Salerno; and Leo Jepsen. Bill was predeceased by his granddaughter, Mia Madelyn Jepsen.
He is also survived by his brothers C. Christian, John R., and Thomas J. Jepsen.
Bill was a man of wide interests and constant curiosity. A passionate sports fan, he remained a loyal supporter of all things Boston-especially his beloved Red Sox. His relationship with Big Blue, the New York Giants, could best be described as a love-hate relationship, one that nonetheless produced cherished memories of attending Giants games followed by date nights with Mary at Il Vagabondo in New York City.
He loved being outdoors and found great peace walking and hiking the trails in the woods behind his home in Madison, CT-often with his grandchildren at his side. He treasured summers in Cape Cod with Mary and their children, where days at the beach, simple routines, and time together became some of the family's most enduring traditions. He also cherished his time exploring the world with Mary – trips that enriched their lives and reflected his deep passion for history. Whether running, throwing darts, watching his children's and grandchildren's games, or exploring nature, Bill delighted in the simple joy of being together. He was an avid reader of history, a storyteller with impeccable timing, and a man who valued authenticity above all else. He believed deeply in genuine connection and offered kindness freely to whomever he met. His sense of humor was legendary-sharp, quick, and unforgettable. A man of faith and a steady example to others, Bill lived wholly through his family, taking immense pride in immersing himself in their lives.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the friends and caring staff at Evergreen Woods in North Branford, where Bill spent his last few years. Their warmth, support, and compassion brought him comfort and community, and they remain deeply appreciated.
A visitation will be held on Friday, December 19 at 9:00 a.m. at St. Aloysius Church, 21 Cherry St., New Canaan, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014; https://www.michaeljfox.org/ Arrangements are in the care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St., Guilford. To share a memory or leave condolences, please visit the funeral home website www.guilfordfuneralhome.com