Joseph G. Bigwood

Joseph Garard Bigwood sadly passed away on March 1st 2025, at the VNA Hospice House in Concord NH. Joseph was born in Boston, Massachusetts, he is the son of John and Margaret (Doyle) Bigwood.

Joe graduated from Dorchester High School in 1962 and worked for The Federal Reserve of Boston in financial services and bank examinations. He then became a full-time firefighter in Albany New York for a time and ran a commercial cleaning company on the side. He moved to New Hampshire in 1968. Joe started cooking for his own family as a child, volunteered as the cook for his Fire Company and then went to work at New England College as a chef for 4 years and at the NH State Hospital for 3 more years in food service. He then worked in Medicaid and insurance billing operations for another 7 years. He then went full time into the catering business on his own, continuously for 35 years until retiring in 2009. Joe and his wife, Ginny , and their firm have done a lot of charitable work for a number of social service organizations and for the Hundred Club of NH. He was Raised in Aurora Lodge #43 in Henniker in 1972 and went pm to serve as WM for three years. Joe has been active in York Rite, Scottish Rite, and Shrine and in the Order of the Eastern Star for over 25 years. In recognition of his many years of quite service to NH Masonry, Joe was awarded the Jeremy Ladd Cross Medal in 2012. Brother Bigwood has served as Grand Steward for five Grand Masters. He was a worthy master of the general court lodge. Joe enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife Ginny of 55 years, his nephews Barry Eaton, Jeff Eaton and Brad Rice. Niece Karen Bartels and Brother Robert Bigwood and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday March 8th from 1:00pm to 2:00pm with a Funeral and Masonic Service beginning at 2:00pm. All services will be held at the French and Rising Funeral Home 17 S. Mast Street Goffstown NH 03045.Immediately following the services a reception will take place at the Weare Town Hall. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity. For more information or to sign an online guestbook please visit www.frenchandrising.com.