William J. “Bill” Estey, 80 of Londonderry, NH died Friday November 8, 2024 at the Elliot
Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born on December 2, 1943, a son of
the late Harold L. and Elizabeth (Crosby) Estey. He was a lifelong resident of
Londonderry.
Bill was a graduate of Alvirne High School in Hudson, NH Class of 1962. His father
passed away at the age of 50. After his Dad’s passing, he assumed responsibility for
the family business, Harold Estey Lumber, and farm along with his brother, Harold
Estey. He was a member of the Air National Guard from 1964 to 1970. He married the
love of his life, Betty, in 1966. Bill was a member of the Independent Order of Odd
Fellows for over 55 years. He was also a member of both the Two-Cylinder Club
(Tractor Organization) and East Coast Antique Tractor Club.
He enjoyed watching the horse and oxen pulling at the Deerfield Fair and always looked
forward to his annual trips to Maine for the Antique Tractor and Engine show and
Loggers Expo. His enthusiasm for anything John Deere, Ford and NASCAR was well-
known among his family and friends. A man of simple tastes, he had a fondness for
Snickers, Twinkies, Coffee Milk and Tomato soup. Everyone that knew him knew that
he did not like CHICKEN! He loved sharing his knowledge of milking cows with
demonstration at every family gathering which filled the room with laughter and never
got old.
His love for his family was always evident, especially in the smile that lit up his face
whenever he spoke of them. He was a devoted husband, father and Papa whose
greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty J. (Abbott)
Estey of Londonderry, four cherished daughters, Karen Estey Caron and her partner
David R. Caron of Milford, Lynne Johnson and her husband David of Londonderry,
Nancy Dalen and her husband Donald of Fair Play, SC, and Amy Sullivan and her
husband Daniel of Goffstown, five adored grandchildren, Caitlyn, Ryan, Matthew,
Benjamin and Johnny who brought immense joy to his life, two sisters, Maria Simmons
and Betsy Child both of Derry, as well as nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by
his brother, Harold T. Estey in 2024, and by his sister, Evelyn Mason in 2023. His
memory will live on in the hearts of those who shared his passions and enjoyed his
company.
Calling hours will be held on Tuesday November 12, 2024 from 5 – 7pm in the Peabody
Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 290 Mammoth Rd., Londonderry. Private burial will
be at Pillsbury Cemetery, Londonderry. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be
made to: The Amyloidosis Center at Boston Medical Center, 830 Harrison Avenue,
Third Floor, Boston, MA 02118.