William H. McDonough, Sr.

William (Bill) Henry McDonough Sr died peacefully on Friday November 5, 2021 surrounded by loved ones after a lengthy illness. He was born in Hartford CT on November 14, 1939 and was the oldest child of Estelle (McCullough) and George Francis McDonough. Bill grew up in Bloomfield and lovingly stayed in the area most of his life, with few exceptions. He attended and graduated from the College of Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. His only other significant venture beyond Connecticut was his basic training in Mississippi for the Air National Guard. He loved being with his siblings Marty (O’Brien), John and Trudy. For the last several years Bill lived in the family home with John, gardening, collecting stamps, doing puzzles, sharing meals and debating the nuances of daily activities. The pandemic brought many challenges, but they were blessed to share more time with Marty in their home. His proudest moments were seeing his grandchildren. He enjoyed every moment and was always looking forward to the next visit. Bill shared his love of corny jokes with his grandchildren and great nieces and nephews. They responded with many of these “groaners” to support all of us these last few days. He also enjoyed collecting stamps and coins. “Grandpa Stampa” could frequently be found showing his collections off to grandchildren, teaching them all about his craft. He successfully passed along his appreciation for puzzles, and they could be found strewn across any table where he was. Bill was a season ticket holder for Holy Cross football and basketball games for almost thirty years. He was grateful for his fellow alumnus and friend Tom Burns who joined him at countless games. He and Tom shared the joys of the Crusaders’ winning season with big home wins against Georgetown and Colgate! He was predeceased by his siblings Mary Gertrude McDonough and John Edward McDonough. He is survived by his sister Martha O’Brien of Pawcatuck, CT, his daughter Marita Coombs (Bob) of Somerville, MA, son William McDonough (Marycate), daughter Marsina Stearns (Marc) and his son Colin McDonough of Bozrah, CT. He also leaves nine grandchildren who meant the world to him, Lucy, Thomas, Laura, Amelia, Catherine, Emma, Margaret, Rebecca and Emily. He was fortunate to spend time with his nephews Timothy O’Brien (Abby), Brendan O’Brien (Jennifer) and their children Teagan, Cade, Keira, Owen and Sean. Funeral services will be Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 10 am at St. Patrick & St. Anthony Church 285 Church St. Hartford. Burial will follow in Mt. St. Benedict Cemetery, Bloomfield. Molloy Funeral Home has care of arrangements, online expressions of sympathy may be made at www.molloyfuneralhome.com