Cover photo for William R. Dexter's Obituary
William R. Dexter Profile Photo
1949 William 2025

William R. Dexter

May 18, 1949 — July 11, 2025

Cape Coral, FL, formerly of Hudson & Stow, MA

Emblem

William R. Dexter, known fondly as Bill, was born on May 18, 1949, in Boston, MA. He passed away peacefully at his home in Cape Coral, FL, on July 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. At the age of 76, Bill's legacy of compassion, commitment, and devotion continues to live on through those he cherished.

Bill was a dedicated employee of the Digital Equipment Corporation for over 24 years, where he worked as a level 2 buyer in their purchasing division. After his tenure there, he contributed his skills and experience to Lifeline until he retired in 2006. His professional life was characterized by a strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence.

A proud veteran, Bill served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1968 until his honorable discharge in 1974. His military service was a testament to his courage and dedication to his country.

Family was of utmost importance to Bill. He was blessed with a wonderful partner in life, his wife Diane "LiPetri" Dexter, with whom he shared 53 years of love and companionship. Together, they raised three children: Michael Dexter and his wife Nivia of Miami, FL; Andrew Dexter and his wife Danielle of Westborough, MA; and Annette Ballard of California. Bill's legacy extends to his beloved grandchildren: Logan, Laryssa, Vyvienne, August, Reese Dexter and Amber Rioux, as well as Ian and Clara Ballard, and step-grandchildren Daniela Peña and Jason Arevalo, and two great-grandchildren. Bill's unselfish commitment to his family and his spending time with them were what he cherished most in life.

Bill was also known for his warm personality and his ability to forge deep friendships. He was a devoted friend to all who knew him, including his former late wife Terry Copestick of California, Tom and Maureen Garrity, Claire and Bill Donovan, Mark and Charlene Paakki, and Stephen and Jan Rodger, continually displaying kindness and generosity. His hobbies included many rounds of golf with friends in the Greater Boston Amateur Golf League and enjoying candlepin bowling at Crowell Bowl in Stow, MA, where he created many joyful memories.

Bill is preceded in death by his father, Leonard R. Charron, his mother, Claire T. "Robidoux" Dexter, Harry Dexter and his son-in-law, Keith Ballard. He is also survived by other relatives and friends, who will remember him fondly.

A visitation will be held on July 25, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, located at 50 Central St., Hudson, MA. A Celebration of Life will take place the following day, July 26, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM, also at Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home, concluding with interment with Military Honors at Saint Michael Cemetery, Hudson, MA, at 12:00 PM.

Bill's proudest accomplishments included raising his family and his unwavering devotion to his wife, Diane. His family was his passion in life, and his spirit will forever guide them. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

"FAMILY"

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of William R. Dexter, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Friday, July 25, 2025

4:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

Add to Calendar

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home

50 Central St., Hudson, MA 01749

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Celebration of Life

Saturday, July 26, 2025

11:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

Add to Calendar

Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home

50 Central St., Hudson, MA 01749

Immediately following the service

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Interment

Saturday, July 26, 2025

12:00 - 12:15 pm (Eastern time)

Add to Calendar

Saint Michael Cemetery, Hudson, Mass

278 Cox Street, Hudson, MA 01749

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Photo Gallery

Guestbook

Visits: 902

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Send Flowers

Send Flowers

Plant A Tree

Plant A Tree