William J. Howes

William J. Howes, affectionately known as Bill, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 7, 1933, in Concord, Massachusetts, Bill's life was a testament to dedication, service, and community spirit.

A proud graduate of Maynard High School, class of 1951, Bill's commitment to service extended beyond his education. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1951 and served as a veteran during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries sustained in battle. He was honorably discharged in 1954, a period that marked the beginning of his profound respect for duty and dedication.

Bill's career spanned many years as a devoted employee of the Boston Edison Company, where he advanced from a leader linesman to a supervisor of the linesmen. Known for his organized and detail-oriented work ethic, he earned the admiration of his peers and played a vital role in ensuring the reliability of electrical services in the community.

Alongside his professional endeavors, Bill had a rich and fulfilling personal life. He and his beloved wife, Martha J. (Mariano) Howes, celebrated 58 years of marriage and took great pride in raising their family in Berlin, Massachusetts, where they resided for over 57 years. Bill's unique and loving personality endeared him to many, and he was well-known for his avid support of sports at both national and local levels. He often attended events, cheering on his family members and fostering a sense of community through sports.

In addition to sports, Bill had a passion for golfing, enjoying many rounds with friends at Twin Springs in Bolton, where he also worked part-time, along with his job at the Solomon Pond Driving Range. He shared a special love for square dancing with his wife, Martha, making cherished memories in their time spent together.

Bill was active in his community, proudly belonging to the Maynard Elks and the American Legion in Maynard, as well as the Berlin American Legion. His contributions included volunteering to enhance local sporting events, notably assisting with the installation of night lights in Maynard, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community that meant so much to him. He was a member of Local 369, Utility Worker's Union of America (AFL-CIO).

Bill's legacy will be carried on by his loving family, including his wife, Martha; children Sandra Sullivan and husband Barry of Hudson, NH; Joseph Graceffa and partner Holly Safranski of Berlin, MA; Deborah Howes of Leominster, MA; Beth Howes and husband Ronnie Chiasson of Hudson, MA; Maureen Howes and husband Shay Tingle of Sterling, MA; and William M. Howes and wife Erica of Lancaster, MA along with Erica's son Troy Steere. He cherished his grandchildren: Maegan Demers and husband Keegan of Londonderry, NH; Nicole Sullivan and husband Sean of Scituate, MA; Austin Sullivan and wife Brittney of Northborough, MA; Joey Graceffa of Encino, CA; Marissa Gemma of Clinton, MA; MacKenzie Hastings of Sterling, MA; Taylor Howes of Worcester, MA; Kylie Hill of Lunenburg, MA; and Adam Hill of Lunenburg, MA and great grandchildren, Piper, Kane & Nora, Gina, Emma & Macklin. JJ & Brooke, Layla & Beckham. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Lorraine Howes, wife of the late Jack Howes of Acton, MA along with his nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, George Howes and Dorothea (Connors) Howes, and his daughter Gina Graceffa, who passed away in 1975. He leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and memorable contributions that will not be forgotten.

A Mass in honor of William J. Howes will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Saint Joseph the Good Provider Church, 52 West Street, Berlin, MA; followed by Military Honors and burial at South Cemetery, Pleasant Street, Berlin, MA. at 10:00 AM. His family invites all who knew and loved Bill to join them in remembering a man whose life was full of unique and loving moments. Tighe Hamilton Regional Funeral Home is honored to be assisting Bill's family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Bill may be made to: Veterans Inc., 69 Grove Street, Worcester, MA 01605 (https://www.veteransinc.org/)