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William Goodrich Obituary
Born in Pawtucket, he was the son of Donald L. Goodrich of Narragansett and Rita Good of Peace Dale.
A prominent and well respected Labor Organizer, William (Bill) was a tireless advocate for workers and workers rights. He was responsible for organizing thousands of workers throughout the nation. Bill was a proud member of Local Union 777 of the Laborers' International Union of North America located in Los Angeles, California. Bill was appointed to serve as the first Director of the Laborers' New England Region Organizing Fund located in Providence, Rhode Island. He later served as a Lead Organizer to the Laborers' National Organizing Fund located in Washington, DC. Most recently Bill was honored to be appointed the first Director of the New York State Laborers' Organizing Fund located in New York City.
In addition to being a cherished friend to countless people in Rhode Island, New York, Washington, DC and Florida, he was the devoted brother of Mark C. Goodrich of Hollywood, Florida, Catherine Goodrich Miller of Washington, DC, Jennifer Goodrich Coia and Sarah Verardo, both of New York City, Laura Verardo-Goodrich and Emily Verardo-Goodrich, both of Narragansett. Bill was the grandson of Doris C. Good of Hingham, Massachusetts and Claire M. Goodrich of Stuart, Florida. He is also survived by Joan Verardo of Narragansett and Joanne Costanza of Peace Dale. Bill was the beloved uncle of six nieces and nephews, Kaitlin Miller, Caroline Coia, Maddie Miller, AJ Coia, Will Miller and Scarlett Goodrich. Bill also leaves behind two brothers-in-law, Arthur E. Coia II of New York City and Jeff Miller of Washington, DC.
Bill will be sorely missed by his family, friends and fellow Laborers. However, Bill's kindness, generosity and loyalty will serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. In addition, his work to improve the lives of workers and their families throughout the country leaves behind a legacy which will last for many years to come.
His funeral services and burial were private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Arthur E. Coia Scholarship and Education Fund, 410 South Main Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903. Visit www.nardolillo.com for information and online condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Goodrich
Sponsored by LABORERS LOCAL 872 LAS VEGAS,NV.
Marty Love
July 19, 2012
I know it's been years since you passed, maybe it has taken years to find the words. I'll never forget all the times we have had and although you were always the lead on our campaigns, I was happy to serve as second lead to you. We have traveled many miles together into 3 different countries and we always left them wondering what happened when we left. lol The last good memory I have is the both of us in Buffalo, NY and we listened to the entire AC/DC album "Back in Black" in 2000 on the 20th anniversary of it's release on the radio. I'll Miss you Boca Bill. I hope you are in a better place argueing with someone about something.
Mary Ann Strain
February 1, 2009
To the Goodrich Family
My deepest sympathy. I am saddened to hear about Billy. I remember the beautiful, blonde, baby boy with so much affection. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Vanessa Prantino
January 30, 2009
Although I know how much you loved Maria... I want to thank you for the beautiful moments We spend together...Thank you for being such a wonderful and caring man... I will always love and remember you.
May God have you under his wings...
Vanessa
Karen Pelczarski
January 26, 2009
Donald and Joan. I just recently heard. I am so very sorry for your loss. I will remember Billy quite fondly -- based upon the few times I was fortunate enough to have met him, he made an impression with his warmth and passion for what he was trying to accomplish in his life. From the notes about him, I take it he accomplished a lot. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Byron G. Silva
January 23, 2009
To Paul Goodrich (PG) and the entire Goodrich Family, please accept my deepest condelences.
I have known Billy and had the pleasure to work with him, I have good memories and good organizing lessons from him.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.
John Markey
January 22, 2009
Donald, I didn't know Billy, but reading the condolences of the many who did, your son had a great impact on the lives he touched. In our brief conversation you mentioned his smile. I have seen his photo now and it was a 1000 watt smile! Your friend,
John Markey
John Gelety
January 20, 2009
To the entire Goodrich Family:
Nikki and I want to express our sincere condolences on the death of your son and brother Billy.
Billy was a close friend and traveling companion of ours; he was bright and engaging, always ready to respectfully challenge ones position on difficult issues, and brought with him a positive attitude wherever he went.
We will miss his big smile, warm heart, and wonderful voice!
Much Love,
John & Nikki Gelety
Fred Lowe
January 19, 2009
Billy and I were good friends. He was responsible for winning the Organizing Campaign for 5,200 Riverside County employees in 1996. My wife, son and I stayed at his house in Narragansett about eight years ago and he was very gracious, staying at his Dad's for those few days.
He was very smart, very charming, and very alive - seeming not to be afraid of anything.
I had just seen him a couple of weeks earlier in D. C. at a LIUNA Conference and he had lost weight and looked great and seemed great.
His sudden death has affected me a great deal and I am still very shaken up by it.
Life is unfair at times and he gave his life to make things more equitable among the working class.
Leann Roberson
January 16, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Billy's loved ones and friends. I was fortunate to know Billy as a friend and co-worker. Billy was so smart and full of charisma. When he would call he always had something crazy to say, and forget trying to keep information from him and his inquisitive nature. I never met someone that just put it all out on the table like that. He never left a stone unturned when it came to doing what he believed in and he was the kindest soul who would never let a friend fail. He will be sorely missed.
Jerry Ball
January 14, 2009
My deepest sympathy goes to the Goodrich family. I had the pleasure of learning and working with Billy around the country. He is the definition of a union brother and I will greatly miss his friendship.
Richard Grant
January 13, 2009
Our deepest sympathy. We were saddened to hear about Billy. Todd said he had just met Bill a few weeks ago. He and Sally express their condolences. Jan and I know this is not an easy time for your family. We hope you will call on us if you think we can help in any way. Our thoughts are with you. Richard, Jan, Sally and Todd.
Chris North
January 12, 2009
My thoughts and prayer's go out to Billy's family. I was blessed to know Bill and words simply can't express the loss I feel right now,... the loss I know we all feel. Billy had so much love and compassion for people, and I was so privileged to see that first hand for the years I got to work with him organizing the pipeline industry.
It is so hard to epitomize someone from a single memory but to this day I still tell friends at dinner parties about the time Billy and I went to dinner after a Reds/Yanks game in Cincinnati. The Yankee players were all at the restaurant, and Billy out of nowhere, motions Derek Jeter over to our table. Of course if you know Billy, and the confidence he always portrayed, Derek comes over to our table like he knew Billy all his life. We made small talk with Derek for a little while, and after he left, the couple at the table next to us asked Billy to introduce them to Derek Jeter since he seemed to know Derek so well.
Again my heartfelt condolences to all of Billy's family. I am proud to have called Billy Goodrich my friend.
John Seaton
January 12, 2009
To the Goodrich Family,
Billy and I were very close friends. Billy was the best at organizing tactics of anyone I ever worked with. He was as comfortable talking to C.E.O.'s as he was talking to workers. We had a great deal of fun working and playing together all over the country. I loved him like a brother. I will miss him greatly. LIUNA lost one of our finest. My thoughts are with you.
Billy was loved by many.
Sincerely,
John R. Seaton, Director NROC
ana elorduy
January 12, 2009
To the Goodrich family,
My deepest sympathy.I´m very saddened to hear about Billy. I´m so sorry for his loss. Always thinking of you but specially during this very difficult time. Love ANA
Mara Safra
January 10, 2009
Jen, I am sending my deepest sympathies to you and your family. Sorry to hear this sad news.
Mara Safra
jennifer laughlin
January 9, 2009
I will never forget the first time we met. You had me as soon as you spoke....You always made me laugh, and I will never forget the time you came to visit me when I moved to FL and especially the many times I visited you, Joe Pag, Rob G., and Sean L. in Boca. You were a good smart and caring man. Everytime we saw each other,no matter how many years had passed, you were always that great guy... God bless you now, and please watch over us down here....
Traci Evers
January 9, 2009
I want to thank all of Billy's family and friends who showed me so much kindness and love while in Narragansett. The expression "The World is a better place with him in it" is used often, and in Billy's case so very, very true. He touched many lives through his efforts at work, and brought so much joy and happiness to all who knew him. I hope you find some comfort in knowing so many people are grieving along with you.
Nancy Toppi Mancini
January 9, 2009
Donald, Cathy, Jenn, Mark, Joan and Rita:
Billy was an extremely special person.
No only was his smile infectious, but his generosity of truly caring about people was a gift.
He called me "nance romance" and would tell me I looked like Annabella Sciarra during her time on the Sopranos. (I think whis was a compliment)
No matter what he called for he always took the time to find out how
"you were" and really took the time to listen and just be there.
He lived life to the fullest and we should all take his example on how to give back...
Even though I had not seen him in a few years he will always hold a special place in my heart.
His loss will always be a void that can not be filled by anthing else but I hope that in time everytime you think of him you think of the times that make you smile.
His legacy will live on forever.
Love,
Joe Scotto
January 9, 2009
You have my deepest sympathy. My thoughts & prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the support of your family & friends help you cope with your loss.
Sophia Lenihan
January 9, 2009
To the Goodrich Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. I have had the pleasure to know Bill for over 20 years. There were many laughs and adventures shared in the time spent with him & never a dull moment. Bill always brought a smile to my face and many others. May your family find peace in knowing how truly loved he was. We love you & miss you Bill.
Kerri Handrigan
January 9, 2009
To Billy's family and friends,
I am so sorry to hear of Billy's passing. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Kerri Handrigan
Pamela Wilson
January 9, 2009
Dear Goodrich Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. We are sending you lots of love.
Pam & Chris Wilson
Linda Chang (Crowley)
January 8, 2009
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Black Schroeder
January 8, 2009
I am very saddened to hear about Billy. I had the opportunity to work with Billy when I was first appointed an Organizer from the United Association working with the PUMP Team. Billy was truly a class act and an asset to Organized Labor, he will be missed greatly. Business Agent Local 798 Tulsa,OK.
lori benson
January 8, 2009
Thank you for entering and making an impression o my life,
Lori
Kristin Coletti
January 8, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Goodrich and Good family. I will always remember Billy as a kind and compassionate friend. May your family find peace through this terrible time.
Christine Lennon
January 8, 2009
My deepest sympathy to all of Billy's Family.
I was lucky to grow up with a great group of friends and Billy was a big part of that group. We shared many laughs, adventures and great times up until this past summer when we all got together and travelled down memory lane. I will treasure my memories of Billy, his stories, adventures and smile. May your memories be comfort to all of you in this very sad time. May you be blessed in knowing how loved your Billy was to many.
Dan Cunningham
January 8, 2009
To the entire Godrich Family
It's amazing how one man can make such a large city feel so empty. Bill will be missed everyday. Dan Cunningham
Christiane Anderson
January 7, 2009
Jen and family,
Thinking of you during this very difficult time.
My Sincere Sympathy,
January 7, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, The Hedengrens
Annmarie Johnson
January 7, 2009
My deepest sympathys to your family,my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Annmarie Como Johnson
Gretchen Babcock (Cunningham)
January 7, 2009
My condolences to all the Goodrich Family
I have many fond memories of Billy. We were good friends in our teenage years. I hadn't seen him in a few years but the last time I did he still had that same smile that he had when we were young. I will miss him and treasure the many memories I have of him.
God Bless your family in this time of sadness.
Victor Primavera
January 7, 2009
Don,
I just wanted you to know how shocked and how sorry I am to hear of your terrible loss. No expression of sympathy - no matter how deeply felt - can help much right now, but I had to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
timothy giles
January 7, 2009
I didnt meet bill but twice but I heard wonderful things about him from my good friend, Rex odom. that twice that I met him was enough to know that he was a fine human being and will be messed by all.
Tim giles, fellow Laborer
Meagan Roberts
January 7, 2009
Donald and Family,
Please accept my deepest condolences.
john smeallie
January 7, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
sean lenihan
January 6, 2009
To the Goodrich Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
We will walk a little slower without our brother Billy,
My great Friend.
The Moving Finger writes; and, having writ, Moves on: not all your Piety nor wit shall lures it back to cancel half a Line, Nor all your Tears wash out a word of it
-- Omar Khayyam
We will all miss you very much Billy, and we will see you again
Sean, Jennifer, and Patrick Lenihan
FallsChurch,Virginia
Laborers Local #872
January 6, 2009
Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Billy's family and loved ones.
Billy is a long time friend and brother to us all at Laborers Local #872 (Las Vegas, NV). An outstanding leader and inspiration to all, Billy definitely made his mark on the world! Thanks for all you've accomplished in the name of LIUNA, Brotherhood, Honor and Friendship! We love you and will miss you terribly....
Fraternally Forever,
Tommy White, Executive Board & Brothers and Sisters of Laborers Local #872
P.S. I will miss you brother....thanks for all the good times! (Tommy)
Humberto M. Gomez
January 6, 2009
Mr. & Mrs. Goodrich:
I did have the honor and privilege to know and be a good friend of Bill.
Bill will be missed not only by myself but also by all the organizers that are part of the Southern California District Council of Laborers.
Please accept my condolences. My prayers will be with you.
Billy with his family
January 6, 2009
Peter Fosco
January 6, 2009
To the entire Goodrich Family:
I have known Bill personally and have had the pleasure of working with Bill for many years and will miss our little conversations and our hanging out. It was just within the last month that I got to spend some time with Bill in Washington, D.C. All I can say is that I will miss him.
Billy was a friend, a fellow organizer and a brother Laborer!
To Paul Goodrich (PG) and the entire Goodrich Family, I offer my deepest sympathy in this very difficult and stressful time. Just take care in knowing that Bill lived every day to it's fullest.
Lisa Laroche (Valentino)
January 6, 2009
To the Goodrich Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you. I am so very sorry. We all send our love to you at this difficult time.
-Lisa
Tom Lennon
January 6, 2009
To the Goodrich Family,
my deepest sympathies on the passing of Billy- Your Son/Brother/Uncle/Cousin and my dear friend.
Tom Lennon
January 6, 2009
Dear Don and Family,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family, my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Stephen D. Alves
Win Hames
January 6, 2009
Don,
My condolences to you and your family in the most difficult of times.
Phyllis Carrazzo
January 6, 2009
To the Goodrich Family,
My deepest sympathy to all of you. Billy was a wonderful man and will be very much missed. May the Lord watch over all of you and may Billy rest in peace. God Bless you all
Phyllis Carrazzo
Health and Safety Fund
Susan Cullen
January 6, 2009
Donald & Joan
My deepest sympathy is with you at this difficult time.
January 6, 2009
Billy & Emily (sister)
January 6, 2009
Billy & Rita (mother)
January 6, 2009
Billy & Jen (sister)
January 6, 2009
Billy in Italy
January 6, 2009
Frank Marchese Jr.
January 6, 2009
I have had the pleasure of working with Billy for many years and will forever cherish the times we shared on both a personal and professional level.
Billy’s greatest gift was his ability to put people at ease and as you know his candor was legendary. He didn’t get caught up in details or small talk and I will fondly remember the many conversations I had with Billy long after he had already hung up. That’s who Billy was; as you asked him for a favor, he was already two steps ahead of you.
Billy was a true friend, I miss him already.
To the entire Goodrich Family, I offer my deepest sympathy in this very difficult time.
Frank Marchese Jr.
The Brothers & Sisters of Local 310 UWUA AFL-CIO
January 6, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
January 6, 2009
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
January 6, 2009
Dear Donald , Joan and Family, We would like to extend our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. Jeanette and Gene Bucci
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