Bill had a fantastic wisecracking rapport with Norma. That's what I remember most from frequent summer visits to the Preston home with my parents Jamie Kilbride and Betty Garrison Kilbride, circa early '90s through 2010. We always stayed a few nights, my parents sleeping downstairs while I tried not to break too many things in Bonnie's old room upstairs.

The early visits were particularly memorable. Bill and Norma drove us throughout the region for hours. I had never heard of the Groton Monument but now I'm traipsing up it. We visited the submarine area and Newport and Mystic and the factory areas where members of my mother's side of the family made a living a century ago. One day we drove deep into the woods, going and going on dirt and bumpy roads. Nowheresville. It could pass for the climactic scene in a true crime program. Nope, Bill and Norma explained this is the exact spot where my grandparents Bob Garrison and Helen Dudek Garrison tried to build a home and make a living in the first years of their marriage. Awesome. I was learning about my grandparents decades after their death.

Our trips always included a visit to Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun, if not both. Stephen tried to take me on an insider's tour of Foxwoods but I was rejected due his boss' fear that I was a card counter. Bill enjoyed my Las Vegas stories so I told more and more of them.

We always treated the Boyds to a casino buffet as partial repayment for their hospitality and homecooked meals, especially the big breakfasts. But I have to laugh while conceding one thing: My dad hated the other frequent destination, a Chinese buffet in a small shopping mall. That trip was generally reserved for our final evening. My dad would grumble for days. "I know Bill will want to eat at that Chinese buffet. Maybe we can avoid it this time." Nope. Didn't happen. I liked the meal and always enjoyed watching Bill put away his platefuls while my dad mostly picked at his food, wishing he were anywhere else.

It's never too late for anecdotes and fond memories. I just found out about Bill's passing tonight from my aunt Carolyn Garrison, Betty's sister. Best wishes, happy holidays and belated condolences to Norma and the rest of the Boyd extended families.

Deepest condolences for your family's loss. Bill was was a wonderful neighbor. May your memories give you peace and comfort

My condolences to the family. Bill worked with my Dad at EB and I worked for Bill at CSC. He was great boss and family friend. In 1954 my Dad was in a bad auto accident, Bill would collect donations at work and deliver them to my Mom weekly. This speaks volumes about Bill's character. This is sad news.

Steve and family,  we are so sorry for your loss, keeping you in our thoughts and prayers

I am extremely saddened to hear of Bill's passing.  His cheerful kind manner made him a pleasure to be around. He will be greatly missed by myself and all the Westbrook boys. My sympathy to his family.  
Dave Meiklem, past president of Westbrook Fishing Club.

Our heartfelt sympathy to you all in this difficult time

Condolences to all and very sad to hear this.  Will always remember Bill's smile at work in Norwich.

Brian & Family
My deepest condolences to you all.
May the memories you have give you some peace during this time  of deepest sorrow.
Cindy jackson-Lotring

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Bill's family. He was a valued and respected member of the Westbrook Fishing Club and will be greatly missed by all.
The Westbrook Fishing Club - Officers, Board and Members

My dear cousins,
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. But what a wonderful life this kind, funny man had. He loved you all and took such joy in you, his family.  I pray that the pain of your loss will soon be replaced with laughter as you remember the life you shared with him. He was one of a kind

OBITUARY

William J. Boyd Sr.

November 29, 1930 – January 27, 2015

Labenski Funeral Home

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Past Services

Calling Hours

Funeral Home Service