William Rooney

It is rare that one finds true love that lasts, but 72 years of a love and lifetime together is what Bill Rooney enjoyed with his love and best friend, Rainey. Together they lived on Long Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Long Island again, and happily landed in Easton, MD. Bill Rooney passed suddenly on 9/5/26. He lived a life that was an example for his children, Kevin (Tricia) and Maureen (Lou) his grandchildren- Emily (Josh), Grace (Aydan), Louis and Courtneigh and his great grandbaby, Solana. He was kind, generous and gregarious and loved his family with his whole heart. Bill never met a stranger and made friends literally everywhere he went. Bill attended St Michael’s College in Vermont. He served in the Air Force- who recognized he was best suited for office work- thankfully. He received his masters and taught 5th grade for 30 years at Clinton Ave Elementary in New York. Upon retirement, he took on the most important job of his life- Papa to Emily and Grace- for whom he nannied full time until both were in elementary school. He and Lorraine made friends easily and kept in touch with wonderful friends from each stage of their life. College friends, teachers from schools they taught in, friends from St John’s in Wading River, Sts. Peter and Paul in Easton, neighbors and beyond. Bill and Lorraine traveled during their summers off and experienced the world with those they loved. They explored Bermuda, Ireland, Costa Rica and all around the US but Bill was happiest simply in the presence of those he loved, no matter where it was. Bill was drawn to the ocean and was happiest sitting watching the tides. His favorite trips were those to York Beach Maine- which began in the 1970s and continued, most recently in 2026, for Emily and Josh’s wedding. He was known to sit at Nubble Light for hours just enjoying the moments and appreciating all he had. Recently, he has been found sitting by the canal in Selbyville- watching the birds and keeping track of the tides. He often quoted the poem by John Masefield- Sea Fever- I must go down to the seas again, to the lonely sea and the sky. And all I ask is a tall ship and a star to steer her by… He loved a good show tune and often broke into song- albeit off key. Renditions of Hello Dolly and St. Louie woman happened often. He loved spending time with his kids and grandkids, especially keeping up with the latest gossip or news from each person. He enjoyed woodworking, and many of his loved ones have some wooden craft he made over the years. It has been said that he never used over 100 grit sandpaper, much to the chagrin of those opposed to splinters. Once a teacher, always a teacher, Bill taught each of the lives he touched countless lessons that his family hopes you will pass on. He will be remembered as a great man who made a difference in a million small ways. It would be his greatest legacy to have anyone who wishes extend a kindness towards the poor, the immigrant, or someone who just needs a smile and kind words. When you need a friend, he would love if you send him all the latest news and ask for advice. He’ll be listening. A wake will be held at Fellows, Helfenbein, and Newnam Funeral Home at 200 S. Harrison St, Easton, MD from 2-4pm and 6-8pm on Thursday, September 10. A funeral mass will be held on Friday, September 11 at 11:30am at Saints Peter and Paul Church at 1214 S. Washington St. Easton, MD 21601 Flowers are not necessary, however, Bill stopped by Robins Nest Florist in Easton weekly, bringing Lorraine home flowers. He would love it if any flowers came from there. If anyone would like to make a donation in Bill’s honor, please choose a charity that reminds you of him. He often donated to the New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation and St. Jude. Details for a luncheon will follow.

William Rooney

May 6, 1938 - September 5, 2026