William H. Somma, Jr. age 94, of Lawrence passed away peacefully at the Mary Immaculate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, February 23, 2017. He was the husband of the late Irene (Buote) Somma with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. William was born in Lawrence on June 21, 1922 to the late William and Concetta (Gravina) Somma. He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, class of 1940. Following his graduation, William proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII and was the recipient of the Bronze Star Medal. He was a project manager for the Lawrence Housing Authority for 33 years until his retirement in 1986. He was a former member of the Lawrence YMCA and the D.A.V. William enjoyed travelling and loved the beach. As the beloved uncle of many nieces and nephews whom he treated as his own children, he is remembered for giving driving lessons, transportation services, and escorting a bride down the aisle. William was a man of deep faith who always saw the positive side of life, even in dark times.
William is survived by his two sisters, Margaret Buco of Methuen and Rose Gugliuzza of Methuen. He is also survived by his many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Constance Somma, brothers Louis Somma, Ralph Somma and Anthony Somma, and his sisters Nancy Petralia and Susan Fillipon.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Mary Immaculate Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the exceptional care they gave to William.
Friends and family are invited to call on Sunday, February 26, 2017 from 1pm – 5pm at the Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home 233, Lawrence Street, Methuen. A funeral service will be held Monday, February 27, 2017 at 9am at the funeral home. Interment to follow at Bellevue Cemetery, 170 May Street, Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, donations in William’s memory may be made to St. Patrick’s Parish Cor Unum Meal Center, 191 Salem Street Lawrence, MA 01843. For directions and online guestbook, please visit www.pollardfuneralhome.com. The Kenneth H. Pollard Funeral Home is proud to serve the Somma Family.