William J. McDonald, 79, a lifelong resident of Stoughton, died Wednesday, December 7 at the Blue Hills Alzheimer’s Care Center in Stoughton. He was the husband of Ruth C. (Crimmins) McDonald. Born in Brockton, Mr. McDonald was a graduate of Stoughton High School, Class of 1944, where he was president of his class and a graduate of Northeastern University. He was a WWII Veteran of the US Army Air Corps. Mr. McDonald was active in Stoughton Town Affairs and a member of many town committees, including the Historical Society, where he was the Past President, the Conservation Commission, Open Space Commission and the Library Building Commission. He was a longtime town meeting representative and the Precinct 4 chairman for 19 years. Mr. McDonald was also a Trustee of the Stoughton Public Library for many years and a member of the American Legion, Post 89. In his free time, he enjoyed reading, camping and baseball. He also enjoyed his trips to Cooperstown to the Baseball Hall of Fame.
In addition to his wife Ruth, he is survived by his children, William J. of Whatley, Daniel H. of Peabody, Maureen K. Bernhardt of Ashby, Gerald J. of Stoughton and Nancy K. Cunniff of Weymouth. Brother of Evelyn Lynch of Mashpee and the late Marjorie Donahue, Charles and James. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral will be held from the Farley Funeral Home, 358 Park St. (Rt. 27) Stoughton on Saturday, December 10 at 9:15 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, Stoughton at 10:15 AM. Visiting Hours Friday 5-8 PM. Donations in Bill’s name may be made to the Friends of Stoughton Public Library, 84 Park St., Stoughton, 02072. Burial will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Stoughton.