William F. Firth, 87

MEREDITH — William “Bill” Firth, 87, of Meredith Center, passed away peacefully on Dec. 13, 2025, at Golden View Health Care Center in Meredith.

Bill was born Aug. 6, 1938, in Jamaica, Queens, New York, where he resided in Fishkill, New York, before moving to the Tampa Bay, Florida, area.

Bill earned his degree in education at Florida Southern University. After graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army. His military career continued for a total of 27 years in the 94th U.S. Army Reserves Command. He retired as master sergeant. During his time in reserves, he worked for Export Shipping in New Jersey. His teaching career started in several Florida school districts, before moving to Presque Isle, Maine, where he taught for 13 years. His teaching career was completed at Gilford High School, Gilford, in special education, where he was admired by his peers and students.

Bill was very active. He obtained his first motorcycle and license at the age of 72 and loved the wind in his face. He enjoyed snowmobile riding and some speed under him. But his love was peaceful boating on Lake Winnipesaukee with his wife Evelyn.

He was actively involved with the American Legion in Belmont, and giving more to the Legion as district commander. He loved beating players on "Jeopardy!" while sitting in his recliner.

His greatest love was his family ... he shared his loving heart daily, worried and cared about each member of his family.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Evelyn M. (Bickford) Firth; daughter Alicia Chase and her husband Thomas; grandchildren Breinn Daigneault and her husband Thomas, Aaron Kirk and his wife Tammy, Shawn Morrison and his wife Allison, and Justin Chase; great-grandchildren Lydia Jordan, Brodie Kirk, Ashtyn Kirk and Brianna Morrison. In addition to his parents, Bill is predeceased by his brother, Barry Firth.

Memorial donations in William F. Firth’s name may be made to the Belmont American Legion Post #58, P.O. Box 58, Belmont, NH 03220.

There will be no calling hours.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.