Obituary

Obituary of William Farrell

September 22, 2023

William F. Farrell, Jr. died on Friday, September 22, 2023, at Calvary Hospital at the age of 80.

Will (Bill) is survived by his wife, Eileen (nee Fletcher), daughter, Jacqueline, and sister, Barbara Farrell Fletcher. He leaves behind nephew, Tom Egan and nieces, Vanessa Lamoreuax, Suzanne Raleigh, and Jennifer Riccardi. He was born in The Bronx on March 20, 1943, to William F. Farrell, Sr. and Amelia Gibowich.

After high school, he joined the army and served as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. During this time he suffered a traumatic car crash which left him partially disabled. He married Eileen F. Fletcher on June 1, 1968. He continued his education at Pace University, The New School, and earned a graduate degree from New York University. Jackie was born in 1984 and was a beloved addition to the family. He worked at the Village Vanguard for a time and then as a psychiatric social worker. He managed a Homeless Shelter for Men in Brooklyn. For many years he worked with inmates at Rikers Island and maintained a small private practice which continued until he died.

He was known for his humor and love of traveling. His personal journey to healing was to help others. He loved life, his family, friends, and colleagues.

There will be a remembrance for him on Saturday, September 30, 2023, from 3-6 p.m. at Andrett Funeral Home at 199 Bleecker Street.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Calvary Hospital.

Funeral Services

Memorial Service

September 30, 2023

3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Andrett Funeral Home

199 Bleecker Street

New York, NY 10012

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Posted by: Sherry & Mel Belman & Jurman - New York, New York - Friend September 28, 2023

Billy's unrelenting positive attitude and tremendous sense of humor was infectious. When I was very young, maybe 5 or 6, he would always shake my hand. Sometimes he would pull away making a hitch-hiking gesture. More often than not however, there would be a nickel, dime, or quarter in his hand. Big money in the mid-sixties. He was thoughtful and kind and will always remain an inspiration to all of us.


Posted by: Rick Reid - Denver, CO - Family September 30, 2023

Billy was so cool.Great memories hanging out with him.A genuine person who made many contributions to people's happiness and well being.


Posted by: andrew reid - Denver, CO - Family September 30, 2023

God bless you dear Billy for your love of family, your never ending courage, sense of humor, and your chosen profession of helping others.


Posted by: Jean Riccardi - Boca Raton, Florida - Family September 30, 2023

My first real memory of cousin Billy was at his Birthday party when I was about 5 years old…he had received a chemistry set…and had mixed up a “mess” consisting of eggs…he opened a large window, and we began tossing the eggs and the mess out of the window…and leaning out to see the result!…great fun…we bonded?!


Posted by: Jean Riccardi - Boca Raton, Florida - Family September 30, 2023