William C. Geary, a prominent attorney and devoted family man, passed away peacefully at his home on November 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 96 years old. Geary, known for his distinguished legal career and commitment to his community, was a beloved figure in Lowell, Massachusetts, where he spent his life.
Legacy of Service and Family
Born on May 25, 1929, in Lowell, Bill was the son of former Lowell Mayor and Massachusetts State Senator William C. Geary and Catherine E. Geary. He cherished his roots in the Acre neighborhood, nurtured by a close-knit extended family and lifelong friends. Bill attended St. Patrick School and Keith Academy before serving as a World War II veteran in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1948, stationed in Korea during the occupation. His service earned him the WWII Victory Medal.
Following his military service, Bill graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1953 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature. He later attended the New England School of Law, where he developed a passion for justice. After law school, he served as First Assistant District Attorney for Middlesex County before co-founding a law practice, Geary & Geary, with his brother Eugene R. Geary.
A Life of Passion and Community Engagement
Bill Geary was not only a respected trial attorney, particularly known for his expertise in eminent domain cases, but also a politically active individual. He served as Chairman of the Democratic City Committee, drawing inspiration from his political hero, Abraham Lincoln, whose portrait adorned his office throughout his legal career.
Family was at the heart of Bill’s life. He was married to Nancy Kelley Geary for 59 years until her passing in 2014. Together, they raised six children in Lowell. Bill is survived by five of his children: William C. Geary III, Catherine M. Geary, Stephen B. Geary, John C. Geary, and Nancy Geary Funaro. He was also a proud grandfather of ten and a great-grandfather of six.
In addition to his legal and family pursuits, Bill was an avid golfer known for his fast pace of play. He held memberships at Andover Country Club and Longmeadow Golf Club. Notably, on his birthday, a Bald Eagle flew over him while he was on the golf course, a moment he cherished. Bill enjoyed reading, particularly the works of Charles Dickens, and playing card games with friends.
Bill’s enthusiasm for sports was evident, especially his loyalty to local teams such as the Red Sox and Patriots. He was a dedicated fan of Notre Dame football and often traveled to South Bend with family to attend games.
He is survived by his sister Marie Donovan and sisters-in-law Dorothea Kelley and Virginia Geary. Bill was pre-deceased by his son Joseph P. Geary, who passed away on October 21, 1986, as well as several siblings and family members.
Bill was highly regarded and will be remembered for his keen sense of humor and zest for life. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on November 24, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Church in Lowell from 9:30 to 11:15 A.M.. The Funeral Mass will follow at 11:30 A.M., with private committal services afterward for family members. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to St. Patrick School or the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell.
Arrangements are being handled by the O’Donnell Funeral Home in Lowell, Massachusetts. Those wishing to offer condolences can find more information at their website.
