William M. Riley, age 78 of Billerica, passed away September 29th. He is survived by his wife and constant companion of 62 years Mary (Cenci), his sons, William Jr and his wife Judi of Melrose and Michael and his wife Kristin of Billerica. Bill was predeceased by his Daughter Toni Marie Riley, his brother Joseph Riley and sisters Carlene Mericantanti and Sister Maureen Riley. Bill is also survived by his four grandchildren, Ashley, Mikayla, Julia and Michael Jr.
William, as we all know as Bill, grew up in Medford. There, he attended Medford High, where he excelled in athletics, especially Football. Bill adored his family, his mother and siblings he cherished throughout his life. He married his high-school sweetheart a young Mary Cenci who had just moved to America from Italy and started their family and journey together. The love and care he showered his daughter Toni with was an inspiration to all, especially his boys who could not have had a better role model and hero. Bill was a proud 56 year member of IBEW Local 103. Bill was an active communicant of St Matthew the Evangelist Parish, the Church of St Theresa.
Watching his grandchildren grow and partake in all their events and achievements has been his most precious gift. Watching them navigate themselves through their education and moving on to professional careers and being such a part of that journey gave him such joy.
Bill would do anything for those around him including his longtime friends and neighbors as well as his grandkids dogs and there have been plenty. While our heart breaks to lose Bill, our family is grateful to know that he is at peace.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family on Monday October 5th from 4 – 8 PM at the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford, and again on Tuesday October 6th at 8 AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10 AM in St. Theresa of Lisieux Church, 466 Boston Road, Billerica. Services will conclude with burial in Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent in Bill’s name to the School Sisters of Notre Dame, 10700 W Research Dr. Ste 145, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.