William C. “Bill” Prairie IV, 63, of Blackstone and Largo, Florida, departed this earth suddenly, Monday, January 20,2014. Born in Milford on December 3, 1950, he was the beloved son of Jacqueline (Ledbury) Prairie of Franklin and the late William C. Prairie III, who died in 1993.
Bill was raised in Franklin and was a graduate of Franklin High School. Upon completion of high school he enlisted with the U.S. Air Force where he served the majority of his service in Germany. Upon his discharge he was employed by the New England Telephone Company where he was a member of the IBEW and served as a Union Steward Representative. Bill retired in 2004.
Bill was a dedicated Patriots fan and avid outdoorsman. He spent his summers camping at Fort Gety in Jamestown, R.I. where he was most happy being the “Captain of his own fishing vessel”. He was also a member of the Bellingham VFW,
where he served for one year as its Commander. Throughout his many years at the “V”, Billy shared with his peers the spirit of friendship. He recently considered Largo, Florida his place of retirement where he was aquatinted with old friends and made many new friends as well.
Bill’s warm smile and caring eyes was infectious to all those who knew him. He had a gentle soul and giving heart that touched many lives. He will truly be missed by his family and friends.
In addition to his mother he is survived by his son William C. Prairie V of Hawaii and his grandson William C. Prairie VI.
He is also survived by his brothers Richard of Florida, Steven and his wife Heather of Franklin, Jeffrey of Minnesota, Mark of New Hampshire, David of Blackstone, Scott of Franklin and Jennifer Laquerre and her husband Paul of Franklin.
Bill was preceded in death by paternal grandparents William C. II and Svea Prairie and maternal grandparents Francis “Buddy” and Vera Ledbury.
He will be dearly missed by many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.
Bill also leaves behind many dear friends especially Mike Cote and Pam.
His funeral service will be held on Monday January 27 in St. John’s Episcopal Church, Franklin at 11:00.
Burial will be private.
Calling hours will be on Sunday from 4-8 in the Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ww.ginleyfuneralhomes.com) 131 Main Street, Franklin.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to New England Shelter for the Homeless Veterans, 17 Court Street, Boston, MA 02108.