William J. O'Neill

William J. O’Neill, longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at the Grand Rehab & Nursing Center in Valatie, NY on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at age 84.

Bill was born in Somerville on February 3, 1939, one of two sons of the late James J. O’Neill and Anna E. (Mullowney) O’Neill. Raised in Somerville, Bill attended Our Lady of Pity School in Cambridge and graduated from Somerville High School. Shortly after high school, Bill began working at General Electric in Lynn where he rose to become an Inspector in the Aircraft Engine Group. Bill was married to Priscilla-Anne Queen on April 4, 1959 and settled in Somerville before moving to Melrose in 1972 to continue raising their family of five children.

As a longtime union member, he was highly involved in the IUE-CWA Local #201, and served as union steward for many years. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Riverworks Credit Union in Lynn. Passionate and strong willed, Bill loved to debate and took pride in articulating his point.

In his free time, Bill was a sailor and world traveler. He enjoyed many summer days aboard his sailboat, or attending events at the Winthrop Yacht Club where they were members for many years. During the summer, Bill and Priscilla spent weekends on the ocean, sailing around New England. On his 42 ft Irwin, he even traveled as far north as Nova Scotia, and as far south as Bermuda, making new sailing friends and visiting old sailing friends along the way. He also loved vacationing or cruising throughout the world with Priscilla, visiting Alaska, Hawaii, and destinations in Europe. During the winter, he and Priscilla enjoyed several months in Florida before returning to their Massachusetts roots to see family.

Bill was a passionate man who was full of life. He will be lovingly remembered by all who loved him.

Bill was the beloved husband of the late Priscilla (Queen) O’Neill with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Devoted father of William J. O’Neill, Jr. and his wife Karen of N. Reading, Kathleen O’Neill and her husband Kevin Connelly of Melrose, Timothy O’Neill of Dover, NH, Robert O’Neill of Watervliet, NY, and Lorelei Hotaling and her husband Mike of Clifton Park, NY. Dear brother of James O’Neill of Everett. Cherished grandfather of 14 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather in honor of Bill’s life for visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Saturday, Jan. 20 from 9-11am, followed by his Graveside Service at Wyoming Cemetery, 205 Sylvan St., Melrose at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory can be made to a charity of your choice.