ObitMailhoit-webSALEM — William James Mailhoit passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, May 29, at Salem Hospital.

“Bill” was an amazing man who loved football, especially the Patriots, and his trips to the casinos. He would talk passionately about the city of Salem, where he lived all his life. All of those passions couldn’t compare to the love that he had for his family, especially his grandchildren.

Bill attended Salem schools and graduated from Salem High School in 1952. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served at the Naval Base in Norfolk, Va. during the Korean War. After completing his tour of duty, he became employed at the United Shoe Machinery in Beverly where he worked until he retired in 1993.

He spent his retirement enjoying gardening, going out to eat and spending time with his grandchildren and family.

He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Helen; a daughter, Deb Mailhoit; a son, David and his wife Maria Mailhoit; a daughter, Joanne Mailhoit; a son, Robert Mailhoit and his wife Christine, and a son, James Mailhoit and his wife Carrie. He is survived by 13 grandchildren: TJ Tremblay and his wife Jess of Quincy; Brian Tremblay and his wife Sara of Strafford, N.H.; Michael Rosa, Christine Rosa, Ryan Smith, Leanne Smith, Eric Smith, Matthew Anderson, William Anderson, Timothy Mailhoit, Daniel Mailhoit, Katie Mailhoit and Madeline Mailhoit. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Jackson Tremblay, Deandra Rosa and Amelie Tremblay. He is survived by one sister, Eleanor Wickers of Florida.

He was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Nellie (Holloran) Mailhoit.

His funeral will be held on Thursday at 9:15 a.m. from the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St. (corner of North Street), Salem to be followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Thomas the Apostle Church on the Salem-Peabody line. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend.

Visiting hours will be Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m.

Interment will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem.

For online guest book or additional information please visit call 978-744-0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.