William J. McSweeney Jr., 87

BRISTOL — William James McSweeney Jr., 87, passed away on Nov. 12, at home after a period of declining health.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on Nov. 29, 1937, he was the son of the late William J. and Josephine (Brigham) McSweeney.

Following graduation from Quincy High School, he entered the U.S. Navy, where he served for over 16 years. He had two daughters, Joyce and Diana “Hannah,” from a previous marriage, and in 1978, he married Betsy Jones.

After moving to New Hampshire, Bill worked for Easterseals, where his gentle manner was a great asset in assisting their clients. He also worked for Freudenberg NOK and at Newfound Memorial School.

Bill and Betsy loved to go camping in their RV camper, visiting lighthouses, and stopping along the way to play Scrabble. They enjoyed visiting tulip and balloon festivals and exploring state and national parks. They also traveled to Canada, Scotland and Ireland. Traveling gave them great joy, accompanied by their grandchildren and Betsy’s mother, Evelyn.

Bill will be remembered fondly for being a kind, gentle, Christian man.

He is survived by his wife, Betsy (Huber) McSweeney; daughters Joyce Jones and Diana “Hannah” Young; stepchildren Stephen (Eileen) Jones, Timothy Jones, Micheal Jones, John Paul Jones, Sandra (Roger) Watts, Kelley (Stephen) Spain, Daniel Jones and Holly Jones; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and aunt Margaret O’Connell and cousins.

There are no calling hours.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, at the New Hampton Community Church. Burial will follow at Homeland Cemetery in Bristol.

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