William J. Saunders

July 23, 1943 - August 11, 2025

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Obituary for William J. Saunders

William J. Saunders, of Milton, died August 11, 2025, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 82.

Billy was born in Kokomo, Indiana when his father was serving in the US Navy. The family moved back to Milton where Billy attended St. Gergory Grammer School and Archbishop Williams High School attended College for 2 years before entering the US Navy. Billy served in the Navy for 4 years and was stationed in Hawaii for most of that time. He traveled to several countries in the Far East.

Billy went to work for the telephone company and was employed by Verizon for over 50 years.

Billy was a Life Member and a past treasurer of the Milton Yacht Club. He also loved to hunt and spent hunting season at his camp in New Hampshire. Billy was a long-time summer resident of Marshfield. He was a big fan of large boats and airplanes.

Billy is survived by his sister, Kathleen Merritt and her husband James of Randolph. He was predeceased by his parents, William G. Saunders and Catherine (King) Saunders.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday, August 22, 2025, in St. Gregory’s Church, 2215 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester at 10 o’clock. Visiting Hours Thursday, August 21, 2025, in the Dolan Funeral Home, 1140 Washington Street, DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS, 4-8pm. Interment Milton Cemetery.

If desired contribution’s in Billy’s memory may be sent to Dana Farber Cancer Institute,danafarber.jimmyfund.org.

Services

21 Aug

Visiting Hours

04:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Dolan Funeral Homes and Cremation Services- DORCHESTER LOWER MILLS 1140 Washington Street Dorchester, MA 02124 Get Directions »
22 Aug

Mass of Christian Burial

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Saint Gregory Church 2215 Dorchester Avenue Dorchester, MA 02124 Get Directions »
22 Aug

Interment

11:30 AM

Milton Cemetery 211 Centre Street Milton, MA 02186 Get Directions »
by Obituary Assistant

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Tributes

  • 5 TREES

    Maeve Barrett planted 5 trees in memory of William J. Saunders . - August 18, 2025

Condolences

  • September 23, 2025

    Kathleen Saunders-Merritt

    We are messing you Billy forever in our hearts! It was really all about family we had a great! one. Love Kathy Jim and Cozie

  • August 18, 2025

    Maeve Barrett

    We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Billy. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Our hearts go out especially to his loving sister Kathy and her husband Jim, who cared for him with such love and devotion. We hope you find comfort in the love that surrounds you and in the beautiful memories you hold dear. We have cherished memories of Billy and his kindness to us during our trip to Boston in 1994. May the road rise to meet him, May the wind be always at his back, May the sun shine warm upon his face, And until we meet again, May God hold him in the palm of His hand. With love and deepest sympathy, We hold you in our thoughts & prayers, From your Irish cousins, Colette & Francie Barrett & Family

  • August 18, 2025

    Maeve Barrett

    Dear Kathy and Jim, Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved brother, Billy. I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss, and I want you to know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time. I've been remembering your wedding in Boston in the '90s—Billy's warmth and joy were so present that day. The way he celebrated with you remains a precious memory, and I hope it brings you comfort now. Kathy, I can't get you out of my thoughts. I hope you feel surrounded by love and support, even in the quietest moments. In times of sorrow, I'm reminded of the words: "When you saw only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you." May you feel that quiet strength now, and know that you are not alone. Billy's spirit walks beside you still. May his soul rest in peace, and may you find comfort in the love that surrounds you. With deepest sympathy, Maeve, Eoin & Nell Barron, Ireland x

  • August 14, 2025

    Catherine Foley

    Bill was and always will be a family member in our eyes. The many Thanksgivings, birthdays and other holidays we shared with Billy, Kathy and my brother Jim were just that — family. Bill will be greatly and forever missed. Catherine and Dan Foley