William P. Porter

December 1, 2022
Porter, William P.

   William Paul Porter, 85, of Nashua, passed away at his home, Thursday evening, December 1, 2022 after a period of declining health.    

    Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey on June 7, 1937, he was a son of the late Paul and Rita (Murphy) Porter. Bill grew up on Staten Island, NY and graduated from high school in 1955. Shortly after his graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force and served for 30 years as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal (“EOD”) specialist until his retirement in 1985, with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. During his Air Force career, Bill served in the Vietnam War, taught at the EOD School in Maryland and was awarded various medals to include two Bronze Stars and the Airmen’s Medal for heroism.

    A resident of Nashua since 1984, Bill continued his career with Textron in Massachusetts where he worked as a weapons safety engineer for over 20 years.

   Bill was an active volunteer at Southern New Hampshire Medical Center in Nashua for many years and was a communicant of Immaculate Conception Parish.

    In his leisure time, Bill enjoyed fishing, drives in the countryside with his wife and volunteering with the Community Emergency Response Team of Nashua.

    Members of his family include his wife, Jeaninne M. (Vaury) Porter, whom he married on October 11, 1958 and shared 64 years together; three sons, Christian Porter and his wife Jennifer, James Porter and the late Richard Porter; and a sister, Margaret Pluta. In addition to his son and parents, Bill was also predeceased by a brother, James Porter.

    Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Thursday, December 15th from 4 to 7 p.m.  A Graveside service and Air Force honors will take place at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway in Boscawen, Friday, December 16th at 1 p.m. Friends are invited to attend. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com

19 Comments on William P. Porter

Anthony & Patricia DiSturco said : Guest Report Dec 18, 2022 at 6:26 PM

We are heartbroken that Bill is no longer walking among us. There are those who possess a light so bright it not only lights their way, but guides others as well. That was Bill! He was a sweet, kind and funny man with a heart of gold. The world has lost a true hero. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Jean and your loved ones.

John (JJ) Glover, CMSgt (Ret) said : Guest Report Dec 17, 2022 at 10:36 PM

Chief Porter was a Great EOD leader, mentor and friend, and it was my honor to have served with him. I'll never forget the trust he placed in me as we opened up two new EOD flights early in my Air Force career. That trust was pivotal in launching my own successful career. And, at one time, we also shared a love of Corvettes - but that's another story. Jean, please know that I share in your grief but also celebrate his memory. Our love and prayers are with you and your family.

Joan Smith said : Guest Report Dec 17, 2022 at 9:45 AM

Just hearing today of Bill's passing. So sad to hear of the loss of such a wonderful neighbor on Cliff Rd and friend to all. So kind and caring to all of us and our children as the grew up. I will miss his smile and his wave as we drove by him, his sense of humor as we took walks along the road, and his willingness to help out anyone in need. My heart goes out to Jeannine and all of the family.

Celina Frost said : Guest Report Dec 16, 2022 at 7:47 PM

My dearest Bill, I just learned today of your passing. I have the sweetest memories of your kindness and joy. I will cherish the days that you left candies at the hospital to cheer me up, and sent sweet teddy bears when I had my children. You were one of a kind <3 Crash

Lt Col William DB Swezey USAF (RET) said : Guest Report Dec 16, 2022 at 5:26 PM

Jean, I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. We first met at Nellis AFB, Nv and had the opportunity to take a few trips to the gunnery ranges to blow stuff up. Stories which I still relate to my kids with great grandeur of those exciting times! You and Bill came over to our home when I got an assignment to NKP to brief my wife Millie and me on what to expect there. I have known a lot of EOD folks in my Air Force career but can think of none finer than Bill. He was the picture perfect example of what a true EOD specialist was. I feel blessed just to have known him and will miss his Christmas card, usually the first one I received for many years. God Bless you Jean and family. The Chief is at rest.

Darla Porter said : Guest Report Dec 16, 2022 at 11:50 AM

Jean and family I am so sorry for your loss. Bill was such a great person who touched many hearts, including mine. May your memories of a life well lived bring you some comfort at this sad time. Thank you Bill for your dedicated service to our country, both in the military and as a civilian. Gonna miss the “Chief”. Sending my love and prayers. 💕

Trisha (Porter) Irwin said : Guest Report Dec 15, 2022 at 11:57 PM

It’s been so hard to express the Loss I feel in my Heart. I will always regret not being able to tell you just how much I’ve missed You❤️. I will Forever hold you dear to my Heart right next to my Dad. And I will continue to share how very Proud I am of my Uncle, For All You have done. Love You🥲❤️

vernwebster@icloud.com said : Guest Report Dec 15, 2022 at 6:35 PM

I have known Bill for many years, and have always had the utmost respect for him. He was a great Chief and EOD technician. I will miss him. You have my condolences. I will remember you all in my prayers.

Glenn Trowbridge said : Guest Report Dec 15, 2022 at 11:19 AM

My sincere condolences to Jean and the rest of the family on Bill's passing. Bill was a great and kind man, who always had a laugh to share with others. Jean and him were such good friends to my parents through years, they were like family to us. Thank you for your service to this country, Bill, may you rest in peace.

Betty Smid said : Guest Report Dec 13, 2022 at 8:27 PM

I was so shocked and in tears to hear of Bills passing he was such an amazing man and had a heart of gold. His smile made everyone laugh. He will be so missed by everyone.My prayers go out to his family.May God bless all of you. I am so very sorry to hear of Bills passing. May Bill rest in peace .

Milind and Preeya Godsay said : Guest Report Dec 13, 2022 at 5:54 PM

Our deepest condolences to Bill’s family. 🙏💐 We will always remember his smiling face . Our kids use to hang out and play in their neighborhood. Bill had helped our son to get volunteering opportunity at our local hospital. Our kids have very fond memories of him. May he rest in peace 🙏

Karen Pluta said : Guest Report Dec 09, 2022 at 6:52 PM

I love you Uncle Bill!!! I miss you!!! 😓💔🙏

Claudia & David Dionne said : Guest Report Dec 09, 2022 at 1:04 PM

We are so sorry for your loss. Bill always made sure our mom, Midge, had fresh flowers and White House ornaments. May he rest in peace.

Larry Lundrigan said : Guest Report Dec 09, 2022 at 12:43 PM

So sad to hear of Bill's passing. I knew Bill from Textron. He truly was a great American and a true expert in his field. I enjoyed talking with Bill (as did everyone) whether it be about work or any other anecdotes he was willing to share. He was always a great guy to work with. He was one of the good ones!

Danielle Ahearn said : Guest Report Dec 09, 2022 at 10:13 AM

I am heartbroken to know Bill is no longer with us. I worked at SNHMC from 00-07, and Bill was an absolute shining light during those years. Always quick with a smile, or a joke to perk you up. He was such a joy to work with. I can still hear his voice! My sincere condolences to his wife & family. He brought so much happiness to this world. Rest peacefully, my friend.

Lisa & Matt said : Guest Report Dec 08, 2022 at 12:44 PM

BILL was our neighbor, our friend, surrogate father, caregiver, the person who brought you soup or flowers when you weren’t feeling well. We LOVED him and will MISS him. ❤️Lisa & Matt

Lynne Flanagan said : Guest Report Dec 08, 2022 at 10:59 AM

My sincere condolences to the family. Thank you Bill for your Service ,both for this country and for your many years at the hospital. I didn't see Bill very often but, he was always smiling and wish you a good day. Prayers sent out to the family.. RIP Bill.

peraultcheryl@gmail.com said : Guest Report Dec 08, 2022 at 5:52 AM

Was so sad that have heard about Bills passing. He had such wit, poise and was such a gentle and kind soul who gave countless hours to volunteering and loved doing it. May you rest in eternal peace Bill

Veronica Barboza said : Guest Report Dec 07, 2022 at 10:26 PM

I am so very sorry to hear of Bills passing. He was an amazing man who would make you smile on your worst day. May he rest in peace.

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