TILTON ---- William James Benwell (Bill/Billy), 65, of Tilton, NH passed away on Sunday, April 19, 26, after a long battle with cancer, leaving behind a space in the hearts of those who loved him that can never be filled.
Born on August 5, 1960 in Franklin, NH, he grew into a man defined not just by what he did, but by who he was. He was a steady presence, a source of strength, and someone whose love ran deep.
To his family, he was everything. A devoted husband to Deb, he built a life rooted in love, partnership, and unwavering support. He was a husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend whose guidance, support, and sense of humor will live on in the lives he shaped. Whether through small, everyday moments or life's biggest milestones, he showed up.
Bill built a 30+ year very successful interior/exterior painting business. His business card had the best slogan ever, "The job hasn't been done well, till it's Ben-well done!"
Bill had a way of making people feel at ease. He will be remembered for his hard-working ethics, stubbornness, determination in getting things done, his inability to sit still, sense of humor, devotion to family and friends, and how he loved his dogs, Jasper and Lukas. He found joy in hanging out by the pool on hot summer days, having campfires in the backyard, having big backyard cookouts, camping and riding his side by side up in Stewartstown with his family. He also enjoyed building projects with his brother, Booney. Those simple pleasures became lasting memories for the people who shared them with him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Debra Benwell; parents Joanne (Carignan) Reed and Robert Reed; daughter Nikki Sullivan and her husband Matt; daughter Shayna Dutton and her husband Derek; grandchildren Deegan Dorval and Evan Sullivan; brother Robert (Booney) Benwell and his wife Donna; sisters, Theresa Dow, Sheila Dame and her husband Ron, Dorothy Benwell and stepsister, Nancy Reed, along with many aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Benwell, Sr. and all of his grandparents.
Though his passing leaves an immeasurable loss, his life remains a lasting gift. His love, his lessons, and the memories he created will continue to guide and comfort those who knew him.
Calling Hours will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Paquette-Neun Funeral Home, 104 Park St, Northfield, NH 03276 from 1pm-3pm.
Forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.
Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services / 603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, NH, 03246, assisted the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, please visit wilkinsonbeane.com.