William M. McGovern, Jr.
11/13/2022



William Michael McGovern, 81

Dateline: Norton, MA


It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our family patriarch, William Michael McGovern Jr. born February 12, 1941, of Norton, formerly of Foxboro, and was surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, William McGovern Sr. and Gertrude C. McGovern, and spent his childhood years in Roslindale. In addition to his beloved wife Ann M. (Dunn) McGovern, he is survived by his devoted his four children, Michelle Eastman and partner Brian Cook of Norton, Suzanne McGovern and partner Michael Tubin of Plymouth, Paul McGovern and his wife Phanny of South Attleboro, and Brian McGovern and his wife Denise of Mashpee. He leaves behind 10 grandchildren, a brother, Stephen McGovern and his wife Veronica of Norton and a brother-in-law Walter Dunn of Hull. Also, dearest friends Thomas and Peggy Murphy of Dover, New Hampshire.


Bill graduated from St. Mary’s School Brookline, MA; Boston Technical High School; and Boston Teacher’s College. Bill proudly served his country, spending 6 years as a USMC Reservist at NAS South Weymouth as an Aircraft Mechanic, reaching the rank of Sergeant.


Bill and Ann were high school sweethearts. Their partnership was one of adoring love and mutual equality. They were married for 58 years. Their four children were always the nucleus of their love. Bill was a remarkable, steadfast, and generous husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was always the first to champion the endeavors of those he loved, lending his support in the pursuit of their dreams. He was a true romantic and creator of wonderful family memories. Cribbage was considered a family sport, and all were encouraged to learn and play.


He was a lifelong history buff, in particular the Civil War. Bill had an appreciation for gardening, bird watching, and always looked forward to a beautiful sunset. Bill’s greatest joy was having his family together for all holidays, especially Christmas. The house was always brimming with love and celebration of lives, with great food, laughter, photographs, toasts, and tears of happiness. His love for his family was unparalleled. Bill was a rare breed of gentleman and will be remembered in the hearts of all those who crossed his path.


“When he shall die, take him and cast him out east to stars and he shall make the face of heaven so that all the world will be in love with night and pay worship to the greatest son”


Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend visiting hours on Thursday, November 17th from 4:00-7:00 P.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main Street, Mansfield.

His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, November 18th at 11:00 A.M. in Saint Mary’s Church, 1 Power Street, Norton. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory made be made to the American Parkinson Disease Association, 85 East Concord Street, Ground Floor, Boston, MA 02118.

To send his family a message of condolence, please visit www.shermanjackson.com
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Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home
55 North Main Street
Mansfield, MA USA 02048
508-339-2000