William Edward Reilly

William Edward Reilly, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on January 14, 1929, in Troy, New York, he grew up in Valley Falls, where a strong Roman Catholic upbringing instilled in him values of humility, service, and deep devotion to family. His faith remained a steady source of strength and guidance throughout his long life.

William shared 62 years of marriage with the love of his life, Margaret Mary (O’Connor) Reilly, of Schaghticoke, New York. Together they raised five children: Anne E. Reilly (husband Kurt D. Saari) of Jupiter, Florida; Sara E. Reilly of Litchfield, Connecticut; William E. Reilly Jr. of Norwalk, Connecticut; Lawrence F. Reilly of Pittsfield, Massachusetts; and Eileen M. Reilly (husband John D. Ruocco) of Brooklyn, New York. He was a proud grandfather to Devin M. Saari (wife Aleesa H. Saari) of Jupiter, Florida; Caroline M. Saari of Salem, Massachusetts; and Paul W. Ruocco of Brooklyn, New York. He is also survived by his sister, Helene R. Dunne, and was predeceased by his brother, James J. Reilly.

After earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from Siena College, William proudly served in the United States Army, including a posting in Alaska. He went on to build a distinguished career with GMAC, serving as Branch Manager in Providence, Rhode Island, and later working in the Executive Offices of General Motors on Fifth Avenue in New York City. While raising his family in Scarsdale, New York, he created a home grounded in stability, love, and strong values.

William found great joy and fulfillment in gardening, woodworking, and the meticulous restoration of his family home, pursuits that reflected his care, craftsmanship, and respect for tradition. He loved the outdoors and cherished many summers spent in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. In retirement, he returned to Valley Falls, the place that had shaped him.