William Matthew Feaheny

1926 - 2023

After a long, inspired and cherished life, William Matthew Feaheny, 96, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 7, 2023, surrounded by the comfort and love of his family. Visitation will be held Friday, July 21, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM followed by Mass at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA. Interment will be at a later date. William was born November 13, 1926, in New Orleans, Louisiana. After graduating from Jesuit High School, Class of 1943, William proudly served in the South Pacific during World War II as a Merchant Marine Cadet. He received bachelor's degrees in Marine Transportation from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 1947, and in International Business from Loyola University New Orleans in 1951. He served as a U.S. Naval Officer in the Korean War. Upon returning to New Orleans, he remained in the U.S. Navy Reserve from which he retired after 20 years of service. In 2022, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his service as a merchant mariner in WWII. After a successful career in maritime insurance, William was an active member of the Knights of Columbus at Divine Mercy Parish. He humbly served as Grand Knight and attained the rank of the third degree. William was preceded in death by his parents, Anna and Edward Feaheny; his beloved wife of 55 years Martha Buttross Feaheny; sister Mary Clare and brother-in-law Jules Lorio, Jr.; brother Edward and sister-in-law Dorothy. He is survived by his son, William Feaheny Jr. (Allison); daughters Patricia Feaheny, Kathleen Feaheny Lademacher (Christopher); his grandson Jude William Feaheny. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made in William's memory to Covenant House New Orleans. The family invites you to share online condolences at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.