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BORN
1960
DIED
2026
William Deely Obituary
06/17/1960 - 01/03/2026
Our beloved brother Bill was taken from us suddenly on Jan. 3 in a tragic accident. Born 65 years ago in San Francisco, Bill was deeply devoted to his family and friends, and a lifelong fan of the Giants, 49ers, and Notre Dame football.
Bill attended St. Paul's grammar school, graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1978, and began his 40-year career with the S.F. Library shortly thereafter. Bill started his workday at the main library in the wee morning hours, dropping off and picking up books at branches all over the city. Those who worked with Bill knew and appreciated him for his kindness, strong work ethic, and dedication to his job.
After retirement, Bill moved to Sonoma to be closer to his family and embraced a slower pace of life. He enjoyed hanging with family around the pool and the relaxation that retirement brought him.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Bev Deely, brother John, and brothers-in-law Bill Hannan and Dave Frediani. He is survived by his loving siblings Donna Deely, Karen (Richard) Neff, Linda Frediani, Theresa (Bob Forman) Hannan, Mary (Barry) Cotter, and Tom (Andrea) Deely, as well as many cousins. He was a devoted uncle loved by many nieces and nephews: William (Neha) Hannan; Brenda (Branden) Harwood; Patrick (Rita) Dudy; Roxanne Hannan (beloved Godchild); Beverly and Chris Cotter; and Lorelei Deely. He was also adored by his many great nieces and nephews, who loved their Uncle Bill.
Those who knew Bill will always remember his quick wit, kind heart, and unwavering loyalty to family, friends, and his sports teams. His humor, generosity, and gentle presence will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends.
A mass celebrating Bill's life will be held beginning at 11 am on Saturday, January 24th, at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 221 Valley Street, San Francisco.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Deely
Kathleen O´Keefe
February 10, 2026
On behalf of the O´Keefe family of Duncan Street, I offer my sincerest condolences for the passing of Billie. I remember his sweet little face. We are very sorry for your loss.
Kathy
Bill Redmond
January 24, 2026
Truly sorry to hear of this tragedy. Although I have been away from The City since 1979, I will always remember our street softball and football games and "Little Billy" joining in the games. My heart goes out to The Deely Family.
Kathy Healy
January 24, 2026
My heartfelt condolences to the whole Deely family. Billy was my childhood friend. His warm, kind heart shone even then! I will always remember his beautiful smile!
Kathleen Cannuli
January 23, 2026
Prayers and Condolences to you Linda Deely and your family.
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Jim Reber
January 23, 2026
So sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was always kind and generous and I have fun memories of him, including our softball team, going to Giants games and watching 49ers at his house. More recently when going to 49er games I got to enjoy his sense of humor and passion for the SF Pro teams. One good thing when drive to Niners got longer to Santa Clara, there was more time to catch up on family things and also to discuss the 49ers and Giants which he was very knowledgeable of. Our condolences to the Deely family.
Jim and Cristina
Mike Morley
January 19, 2026
Bill was a true friend. Very fond memories of Bill from St Paul´s to Sacred Heart and our close friend group that stayed together after high school. From times up on Duncan Street hill, playing softball for Manny´s Marauders, and pool parties in Sonoma, we had some great times. The Deely's were always a great St Paul´s family. My condolences to you all during this very difficult time.
Gordon Macpherson
January 18, 2026
Sending our condolences. Praying for comfort for all who knew Bill.
Michael Keane
January 18, 2026
I am saddened to hear about the loss of Bill. Always had fun playing softball and meeting up at Greenberg´s. Bill was real genuine and a stand up guy. Prayers to the Deely Family.
Dennis Galvin
January 17, 2026
Billy was a great and loyal friend. I have many fond memories of growing up together, from going to St Paul's and Sacred Heart. Playing softball, watching the 49niners at Duncan St with the infamous Bev Deely 7-layer dip. Also, many great times at the Sonoma house around the pool. May your family be filled with many fond memories of you in this time of grief. Love from Dennis and Barby Galvin
Liam Flynn
January 17, 2026
Thoughts and Prayers go out to the Deely Family on the loss of your brother Bill. He was a good friend and classmate of mine in High School. Sacred Heart High School - Class of 1978
Marty Halloran
January 17, 2026
This was so tragic and heartbreaking. Bill was the absolute best and nicest guy as were all the Deely´s. The great times at Sacred Heart while my brother Steve allowed me to hang out with him and Bill while they were Seniors and I was only a Freshman. Then the days up on the hill on Duncan St in the downstairs room watching the Niners games leading up to and winning the 81/82 Super Bowl. Latter running into Bill and talking while we were both at work on the streets of the City. I will miss him dearly.
Corinne Espinosa-Inong
January 16, 2026
I´m so sorry to hear of Bills passing may he rest in peace. My condolences go out to his family.
Maurine Lanning
January 16, 2026
I am so very sorry to hear about Bill´s passing. My deepest condolences to everyone in the family.
L. Leena
January 15, 2026
Bill was a stand up guy. I knew him from the library and he always offered help. Glad he was retired but missed him delivering to our branch. God Bless you Bill.
Sharon Reyes
January 14, 2026
We are so sorry to hear that Bill passed. He was so fun to work with. He was kind and humble. We wish that we could attend his memorial but live in Washington now. RIP Bill and condolences to all his family.
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