MARLBOROUGH

The McDonough family share the death of their beloved husband, father and brother, William L. McDonough, known affectionately as Bill, passed away on August 24, 2024. Born on December 17, 1956, Bill was the second youngest of seven children born to the late Joseph W. and Mildred (née Sullivan) McDonough. Raised in Dorchester, Bill's early years were marked by a profound satisfaction in working with his hands, a passion that would define much of his life.

Bill was a talented finish carpenter, taking pride in the many homes he helped build throughout his career. He embraced the role of a jack-of-all-trades, often found puttering around the house looking for new projects as he enjoyed the comforts of his own space as a self-proclaimed "homebody". His love for fishing, especially striper fishing from the shores of Nauset Beach, was a cherished pastime. Bill also found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including feeding and watching birds from his back deck, reading, and indulging in practical jokes and talking dog videos.

Bill was known for his unique sense of humor and distinctive communication style. His family fondly recalls his quirky habit of saying he would "fax" them instead of "text" them, as well as his self-described "dad-speak" when it came to computers or new aged lingo. His conversations often revolved around his deep interests in politics and U.S. history, subjects he could discuss for hours.

Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Louise F. Bernard; his three daughters, Kaitlyn McDonough of Marlborough, Meghan McDonough of Glendale, AZ, and Samantha McDonough and her husband Robert Gilpatrick of Framingham. He is also mourned by his four siblings, Barbara Baker and Jo-An Lohmar, both of Raynham, Judy McNamara of Rockland, and Ellen LeBlanc of Waltham, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph and Robert McDonough.

Following Bill's wishes, all services are private, for his family. Memorial contributions may be made in Bill's memory to NEADS World Class Service Dogs, P.O. Box 1100, Princeton, MA 01541. www.Neads.org

Arrangements are under the care of Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough, MA. To leave a kind word or gesture of support, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com. Bill's legacy of humor, hard work, and love for his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.