William F. Shrayer Jr., 53, of Log Road in Smithfield, RI, passed away on January 10, 2026, at Fatima Hospital in North Providence, RI. Born in Philadelphia, PA, he was the son of Phyllis M. (Cason) Shrayer of Knotts Island, NC, and the late William F. Shrayer.
Billy grew up in Beverly and Danvers, MA. He was larger than life—literally 6'5" and 250 lbs—with a personality to match! Everyone who met Billy in his early years immediately became a friend. He was a tremendous athlete with an unbelievable gift of gab, an infectious laugh, and a presence that filled the room.
As an adult, Billy chose his own path in life. While it was not always the right one, for the last six years of his life, he chose to live the right way—making amends, embracing change, and making people happy.
We, as a family, are very proud of him and miss him dearly. We know he will be missed by many friends and family members. Besides his mother, he leaves a brother, Steven Shrayer of Methuen, MA. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, and his long-term girlfriend, Maureen Baxter.
His funeral was private, for immediate family only.
In lieu of flowers, and to honor Billy’s larger-than-life personality and infectious laugh—while also honoring the strength and positive changes he made over the last six years of his life—the family asks that you simply perform an act of kindness for someone in need or share a favorite story of him with a friend.
Let his memory be a reminder that it is never too late to live the right way and make people happy.
You are now at peace and back in God’s hands!