William G. Grady

In Loving Memory of William G. Grady (1938-2023)

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of William G. Grady on November 5, 2023, in Middletown, CT. 

Bill Grady was born on May 7, 1938, in Springfield, MA, to Estelle E. Grady (Kelley) and William H. Grady, the first of six children. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Grady (Cartelli) of Middletown, CT, and their daughter, Kate Grady of Wallingford, CT. His legacy also lives on through his first wife, Tamara Grady of New York, NY, and their children, Timothy Grady and his wife Melissa of Burlington, CT, and Jane Grady of Middlefield, CT. He leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Aidan Grady of Concord, MA, Conor Grady of Portland, OR, and Jacob Pelligrinelli of Keene, NH.

Bill's life was deeply intertwined with his passion for the English language, its literature and poetry. This love led him to a career in teaching. He began his teaching journey at the Long Lane School in Middletown and later dedicated 22 years of his life to educating students at Middlesex Community College in Middletown. Bill became chairman of the English Department. He and his colleagues, in addition to their dedication to their students, shared a love of wordplay, horrible, yet ingenious puns and malapropisms. Fits of uncontrollable laughter could often be heard emanating from their offices.

While continuing his teaching career, Bill pursued a law degree, at Western New England University School of Law in Springfield, MA, and earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1983.

His legal career was marked by a commitment to public service.  For the public defender's office in Middletown, he tried a number of high profile case murder cases. He also had a strong commitment to children and their families. He took on challenging child protection cases, often without compensation, earning recognition from the state Judicial Branch and the respect of his peers for his pro bono work.

Bill is survived by his siblings: Kathy Grady of Springfield, MA, Dorothy Grady of Coventry, CT, and John Grady of Springfield, MA. He was predeceased by his brother, Donald Grady, and his youngest sister, Stelly Brunelle. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, whom he held dear, as well as many close friends and respected colleagues.

Friends and family are very welcome to pay their respects and share their memories of Bill during the visitation hours on Friday, November 10, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St, Middletown, CT. A memorial service to celebrate Bill's life will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 10:00 am at First Church, 190 Court St, Middletown, CT. All are invited to stay for a reception in the fellowship hall after the service. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolitllefuneralservice.com.

In the quiet passage of time, the memory of Bill Grady will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William G. Grady, please visit our floral store.