FUNERAL HOME

Zis-Sweeney and St. Laurent Funeral Home

26 Kinsley Street

Nashua, New Hampshire

William McPherson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 6, 2016.

William Andrew McPherson, at 87 years old, has passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born into life on March 3, 1929 and taken into eternal life on September 2nd, 2016.

Bill was born in Dorchester, MA but lived his youth in West Roxbury, MA. He was the oldest son of William A. McPherson and Margaret (Rice) and was very devoted to his parents and 3 siblings, Margaret, Paul and Eugene. He attended Boston Schools and received his business degree in Industrial Management from Providence College and his Master's degree in Marketing from Boston University. He joined the US Navy and served 5 years active duty as a Supply Corps Officer. He was stationed at Quonset Point, RI and on the aircraft carrier USS Antietam during the Korean Conflict. He remained in the U.S. Navy Supply Corp Reserve for another 25 years, with service as National Director and also President of the Boston Chapter. After 30 years he retired as a Captain in the Supply Corp. He was proud of his long and distinguished career in the US Navy and of the many fellow officers he stayed connected to throughout his lifetime.
After his active duty, Bill maintained a highly successful career in International High Technology marketing management, sales management, and acquisition & business development. He joined Service Bureau Corporation of IBM as a senior sales rep, followed by 20 years of working for Honeywell Information Systems. Eventually he moved to Nashua, NH working for Itek Corporation/Litton Industries as Vice President of Marketing . Later he joined his brother Gene and sold commercial real estate with the McPherson Corporation.

With his wife, Rita, they settled their family in Scituate, MA, and lived there for 24 years, raising their 5 children. Ever the seafarer he loved this little beach community and enjoyed boating, clamming and fishing on the North River and the Atlantic ocean and all the joys of coastal living. He was an avid runner, and reader; always conscientious of his physical health, his intellectual stimulation, but also of his spiritual well-being. He was a devout Christian in both belief and in action, and was a strong participant in St. Mary's Catholic Church. When he later moved to Nashua, NH for business, he kept his Scituate residence and enjoyed frequent visits to the homestead to spend time with his family and friends.

William was a man of great faith. Along with his wife, he was involved with the Cursillo Movement, Marriage Encounters, Teens Encounter Christ and most recently The Voice of the Faithful in NH. A natural leader and always a man of service, Bill was president of the Parish Counsel at the Immaculate Conception Church in Nashua and taught CCD for many years. After a trip to Scotland, he became a lifelong member of the McPherson Clan Association, serving as NE Commissioner. Bill was always passionate about his Scottish heritage, tracing his genealogy and learning about his family and descendants.
Actually, he, like his father before him, had a lifelong thirst for knowledge and learning and teaching. In his later years, he was so proud to be involved in the RISE Program of senior education at Rivier University, helping to create it from the ground up and served as its second president. He was facilitator for the American Quandaries course, a favorite class on Foreign policy, boasting 70 to 90 senior students & loyal followers every single semester for 12 plus years. He also loved his country, kept very current in U.S, politics and took his responsibility to vote very seriously.

But most of all Bill was the consummate family man, He lived for his wife and children and all of his family members. These relationships and reunions are where he derived much of his joy and fullfillment. He leaves behind his wife of 63 years Rita (Dumont) of Nashua, NH, whom he cherished, adored and loved with all his heart for the past 66 years. He believed they were a match made in heaven and he considered her his "PERFECT" wife. After God and Rita, his next great and deepest love were his children. Broken-hearted at such a loss but grateful for his constant love, support and his amazing example, remain his 4 daughters: Katherine & her husband Bob Dexter of Whitman, MA; Helyn & her husband Jim Bailey plus Anne & her husband Joe Sweeney all of Scituate, MA; Mary & her husband David Burkhardt of Pembroke, MA, and finally his son, William A the III & his wife Debbie of Manchester Center, VT to whom he now passes on his torch with complete confidence, respect and love. Also left behind to carry on their grandfather's legacy are his only two grandsons, of whom he was so proud: James Bailey & his wife Laura of Concord, NH and Michael Bailey of Scituate, MA. And of course the 3 great grandsons who brought him so much delight, enjoyment, and hope: Bradley, William, & Wesley Bailey. He is survived by his sister Margaret McDonnell of Lakewood, NY and his brother, Eugene McPherson of Nashua, NH with whom he remained so close and devoted to his whole life and his cousin/sister/best friend (Mary) Jean Gearin of Falmouth, MA/Seattle, WA. He leaves behind ALL the rest of the McPHERSON CLAN, who share his strong heritage and Scottish roots and all the many friends, neighbors, associates, and the countless people that Bill has helped and touched along his journey of love and service. Together we celebrate Bill's extraordinary life!

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, September 9, 2016 from 4:00PM-7:00PM at the Zis-Sweeney Funeral Home, 26 Kinsley St. Nashua, NH. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2016 at 10:30AM at Immaculate Conception Parish, 216 E. Dunstable Rd., Nashua. In lieu of flowers, donations will be appreciated in his memory to the RISE Program at Rivier University, Immaculate Conception Church and Corpus Christi Food Pantry all in Nashua. Condolences may be offered at: www.ZisSweeneyFuneralHome.com.

All who loved Bill are encouraged to write a treasured memory and/or download a favorite picture into the Guest Book on his Obituary page. This is the DIRECT LINK to do that:
http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/dignity-memorial/obituary.aspx?n=William-McPherson&lc=7303&pid=181308524&mid=7075917

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for William McPherson

What is your first memory of William?

Share a favorite memory you have of William.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with William.

Describe a time when William made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about William?

Talk about a shared experience you had with William.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of William.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving William.

What is something you learned from William?

Not sure what to say?

October 2, 2017

Helyn Bailey

Posted by Helyn Bailey

October 2, 2017

Helyn Bailey

Posted by Helyn Bailey

October 2, 2017

Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

So, Dad...It's been a little over a year since you've been gone.
Time passes but not one day goes by that you are not here in my heart. The day you died was not just a date on the calendar. It was the day when my very existence changed forever.
Death changes everything! Time changes nothing...
I still miss the sound of your voice, the wisdom in your advice, the stories of your life, and just being in your presence.
So NO, time changes nothing. I miss you just as much today as the day you died. Maybe even more so.
I JUST MISS YOU!!!

We just spent a family week at the Vineyard without you. We spent it together, blessed for the opportunity, enjoying each other's company, soaking in the beauty of the island, making treasured memories for the kids...and all the while remembering you & wishing you were still physically here with us.
Over the past year I have come to find out that the hardest part wasn't losing you.
The hardest thing of all is learning to live without you!
LOVING YOU STILL ... FOREVER & FOR ALWAYS!

Posted by Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

October 4, 2016

Robert Stankard

I knew Bill when he was selling commercial real estate in Nashua. He and I became business friends and met often for lunch. For some reason I decided to look him up today and was very saddened to read of his death online. Bill was one of the most decent people I've ever met. I will always remember him for his great faith. Rita, I offer you my sincerest condolences. You must be heartbroken. Sincerely, Bob Stankard, Wenonah NJ.

September 16, 2016

Capt Bill Doherty

You know how much he means to me. No one ever gave me what he did. I owe him so very much. I miss him. I lost a cousin, mentor and moral compass. His loving wife and family lost a truly good man. I refrain from using the word "great" because man measures "greatness".
God measures "Goodness " and no man measures up higher than Captain William A. McPherson
Fair winds and following seas, shipmate.

Posted by Capt Bill Doherty

September 15, 2016

Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

It is hard for me to believe that two weeks ago I lost one of the most enduring & important relationships in my life. As the paramedics were preparing Dad for his emergency med-flight trip by helicopter to the trauma hospital in Boston we were allowed talk to him before their departure. Under deep pain medication from being intubated he was not awake. In his ear I whispered "See you on the other side, Dad." I honestly & sincerely meant at the hospital in Boston. I had NO idea he would never regain consciousness. Oh, well. I still mean it. God Bless You, my most wonderful father. I'll see you on the other side!

Posted by Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

September 15, 2016

Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

LOVE and GRATITUDE BEYOND WORDS to my cherished Dad. With joy & confidence we give you over to God and your pre-deceased loved ones who all came rejoicing, with open arms, to bring you to your true & everlasting home. Those of us left behind will internalize your actions, words & lessons & carry you within us forever. We will pass on your faith, values, example and unconditional LOVE to the generations to come. You have made such a difference in this world and we are so PROUD to be McPhersons!

Posted by Helyn (McPherson) Bailey

September 15, 2016

WIlliam A. McPherson III

Dedicated to my Dad....................

"Kind & Generous"

You've been so kind and generous
I don't know how you keep on giving
For your kindness I'm in debt to you
For your selflessness, my admiration
And for everything you've done

You know I'm bound...
I'm bound to thank you for it

You've been so kind and generous
I don't know how you keep on giving
For your kindness I'm in debt to you
And I never could have come this far without you
So for everything you've done

You know I'm bound...
I'm bound to thank you for it

I want to thank you
For so many gifts
You gave with love and tenderness
I want to thank you

I want to thank you
For your generosity
The love and the honesty
That you gave me

I want to thank you
Show my gratitude
My love and my respect for you
I want to thank you

I want to...

Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you
Thank you

Posted by WIlliam A. McPherson III

September 15, 2016

Kathy (McPherson) Dexter

We would like to thank everyone for their condolences, love, best wishes and prayers. It is humbling and gratifying to know that Dad was so loved by so many. While our family is broken hearted, we are comforted by knowing he passed peacefully, and is now with his God; and the outpouring of love and support from all of you. Peace and love to all. The McPherson Family

Posted by Kathy (McPherson) Dexter

September 15, 2016

Kathleen (Doherty) Kaldis

He was an amazing man. A special gentleman who will be remembered for his kindness and dedication to his family. He has a special place in our hearts. Love and hugs to all.

Thank you Bill McPherson for the wonderful gift of family you helped to cultivate. A new generation is at the helm to keep the traditions and family connections going for generations to come. Now it is our turn to pay the gift forward that you gave to us and we will. RIP.

Helyn, the best part of your Dad's legacy is that over the years we went from cousins you see at weddings and funerals to friends we share our lives with.

Posted by Kathleen (Doherty) Kaldis

September 15, 2016

Kathleen McDonnell

May the love of all your family and friends surround you and your family this week as you think of how to celebrate his life and his passing.

Posted by Kathleen McDonnell

September 15, 2016

Colin Gearin

Woke up on the west coast to a gloomy and rainy day and the terrible sadness of losing your Dad. He was my Godfather, a very special lifelong friend to our mom, and a wonderful Patriarch of our clan. Know that we are at your side.

Posted by Colin Gearin

September 15, 2016

Sheila (Gearin) Boxley

Please pass on my condolences to your Mom and family. Uncle Bill was very loved by all of us and will be missed. Thinking of him in this day and remembering our conversations on family and it's importance.

Posted by Sheila (Gearin) Boxley

September 15, 2016

Matthew Gearin

All of my heart is with my deeply loved Uncle Bill today.

September 15, 2016

Jennifer Gearin

I'm so very sorry to hear this. He is such a wonderful man and loved by so many. Sending much love to you all.

September 15, 2016

Marie (Doherty) Foley

He was such a special & kind man. He was loved and respected by everyone who knew him. We will always keep him in our hearts. Rest in peace, Bill.

September 15, 2016

Gene McPherson

Our prayers and best wishes are with your family. Your dad was special and fantastic. He and your mother touched every one they came into contact with in a special positive way. We will all miss him. He will bring joy to heaven and be a fantastic angel looking over your family.
Love Gene (nephew)

Posted by Gene McPherson

September 15, 2016

Patricia (Doherty) Andaloro

My cousin, William has passed away in the company of his loving family. He led an exemplary life and gave us all such a great Christian model to imitate.
My dear cousin, I shall miss you very much. You were one of my strongest links with the past and one of the most decent individuals I have ever known. I have been thinking these past few days of the martyrs meeting you at the holy gate and the angels leading you into Paradise as our Faith promises for its holy ones. Rest in peace, Bill. You have finished your earthly pilgrimage and stand in the presence of God.

Posted by Patricia (Doherty) Andaloro

September 15, 2016

Donna McPherson

Such a kind, intelligent gentleman whom welcomed me to your family with his joy and amusement for life. He will always be the embodiment of the McPherson spirit to me. Thinking of you all.

September 15, 2016

John & Alice McDonnell

Classic gentleman! Our hearts and prayers are with you. "Uncle Bill" was a pillar of grace and strength and will continue to bless all of you from the hereafter.

September 15, 2016

Skip Kearney

So very sorry, a life well lived and a true McPherson, he's already looking down from the Highlands on his family!

Posted by Skip Kearney

September 15, 2016

Helena A. St Clair

I am sorry to hear this sad news. He will be in my thoughts and prayers.

September 15, 2016

Paula Masselli

My Uncle Bill died this afternoon. Here are a few pictures of My Uncle Bill who passed on Sept. 2, 2016. Steve and I were lucky to have spent time with my Aunt Rita McPherson and Uncle Bill because my cousins Helyn McPherson Bailey and her husband Jim Bailey invited to spend time with them at Martha's Vineyard. And just a year ago, you can see Aunt Rita and Uncle Bill dancing at our wedding. Very happy memories. RIP Uncle Bill as you are no longer in pain. Heaven has gained a remarkable man. So sorry for your loss to the McPherson family. Love, hugs and prayers to all of you in this time of sadness.

Posted by Paula Masselli

September 15, 2016

Brianne Masselli

Sending so many prayers your way and to please give Aunt Rita a extra big hug from me please!

September 15, 2016

Joey & Annette Masselli

I am so sorry to hear about Uncle Bill. Please know that we are all sending our love and prayers to you and your family.

Posted by Joey & Annette Masselli

September 15, 2016

Lori DeVito Brennan

You touched my heart in just the short time I have known you.I have been blessed to know such a wonderful man. You will be missed. Lori

Posted by Lori DeVito Brennan

September 15, 2016

Joan Linnehan

Oh, what a terribly sad loss! I have long liked and admired your dad. Your dad did so much and so much more that I didn't know! He was committed to so many great causes. Bravo to him for living such a full and productive life! My heart goes out to you, your mom, and the whole family with fond memories. Hugs!

Posted by Joan Linnehan

September 10, 2016

Rita. I feel so lucky that I was part of Bills quandaries class. He was eloquent
In a way that kept our minds constantly engaged. What a gentleman!! I had a lot of good political conversations with him that I will always treasure.
Thank you for sharing him with us

Eileen Van Law

September 9, 2016

Dear Rita and Family: Bill was an outstanding, remarkable person. He was deeply interested in the other person, personally. He loved all positive aspects of life. He loved to research every aspect of an event or subject and to coordinate it with other aspects of history. He was a fine gentleman.
He'll be very missed; I'm so glad to have had his friendship to remember.
I hope to continue our wonderful friendship, Rita. Aloha and love, Ginny Nedved Cook

September 9, 2016

Jeanne Gearin

Posted by Jeanne Gearin

September 9, 2016

Jeanne Gearin

Cousin, Friend, Brother --all our lives we were best buddies. Bill and Rita at my wedding October 20, 12952.

Posted by Jeanne Gearin

September 9, 2016

Marie Foley

Bill was my Mom's cousin. From my childhood he'd been an integral part of our lives. He was so smart, so handsome and so very kind. He will remain in our hearts forever. We will all miss him.

September 8, 2016

Eric Drouart

To the McPherson family, Antoinette and I are so sorry to hear about Bill.. I was involved for many years with the RISE American Quandaries course he was leading...
We will miss his conversations and insights about international affair.
Out thoughts and prayers are with you all, especially Rita!
Eric and Antoinette Drouart

September 8, 2016

Gerry & Denise Deshaies

Dear Rita,

You can be proud of your lovely family. Bill will be missed. He was so much part of your life and the life of your children. He always had a nic smile and good word for everybody. He will be with you everyday. Pray for his blessings

Love,
Gerry & Denise

September 8, 2016

Nancy Wanders Proietto

My deepest sympathy to you all. I have very fond memories of playing in and around your home. Your family is a close knit one and the love shines through. These photos are fantastic and the story of his life is remarkable. My mom also wishes to express her sadness in hearing the news and is thinking of you all during this time. May your memories continue to help you through this grieving process.

September 7, 2016

Don & Sandy Gillies

To McPherson Family, A wonderful life with many gifts to others. Regret that we did not associate though our paths crossed. Old Fogeys gave so much and extended by work with Church and Community. We lived in Scituate (St. F. X. Cabrini Parish) 1963 to 1979 and drilled at South Weymouth. Thank you Rita for your years as a Military Spouse. Our prayers for all of the family.

September 7, 2016

Jane McPherson

What a beautiful notice. And the photos were great. Much love to my McPherson cousins.

September 7, 2016

Roberta Tambascia

Dear Gene and family,
I am deeply sorry for the recent passing of your brother. My prayers go out to you and your family.
Roberta Mingace-Tambascia (Lauretta's cousin)

September 7, 2016

Carolyn Disco

Bill was our leader at NH Voice of the Faithful, committed to his faith, family and community. He and Rita gave generously of their time and friendship for many years. The 48 beautiful photos share the joy of their family over the decades. Our sympathy to all, with gratitude for Bill's life among us.

September 6, 2016

Peri-Ann Joe Reilly

A wonderful obit of a very engaged , active man. Our thoughts are with all of you.
Joe and Peri-Ann Reilly

September 6, 2016

Kathy (Sweeney) Peters

Sending all of the McPherson family deepest sympathy. May happy memories of days gone by sustain you and bring lightness to your hearts during this sad time. The pictures are wonderful; I remember what a great smile he had. Hugs to each of you.

September 6, 2016

Posted by

September 6, 2016

I love all the pictures and the memories they conjured. I want more! Bill with Wes at 80

Posted by

September 6, 2016

The Staff of Zis-Sweeney Funeral Home

We wish to extend our deepest sympathies at this difficult time.

Showing 1 - 44 of 44 results

Make a Donation
in William McPherson's name

Memorial Events
for William McPherson

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Zis-Sweeney and St. Laurent Funeral Home

26 Kinsley Street, Nashua, NH 03060

How to support William's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William McPherson's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more