William N. Blood, Jr.

William N. Blood Jr., born on January 22, 1929, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a life rich in love, adventure, and quiet resilience. Born in Pepperell, Massachusetts, son of William Newton Blood and Mildred Holt, William spent his early years and raised his children in Pepperell, MA before later residing in Londonderry, New Hampshire. 

William graduated from Pepperell High School in 1947 and he began his Army service in 1951, he was honorably discharged in 1953 from the 508th Airborne RTC out of Fort Benning, Georgia. On July 6, 1952, he married Margaret Mary Wilds, with whom he shared 29 years of marriage. Together, they raised five children: William Blood III of Pepperell, Timothy Blood of Pepperell, Joseph Blood of Barefoot Bay, Mary Sue Blood of Fitchburg and Peter Blood of Lowell.

Professionally, William had a diverse career, working for his father who contracted with the town for lawn mowing, then Lowell Gas and Shattuck Oil while attending night school. He earned his degree in mechanical engineering which led to a teaching career at UMass Lowell. He was well known for his passion for education, famously introducing hang gliding as a college credit course. He continued working at UMass Lowell until the age of 74, retiring as a beloved and respected figure in the academic community. 

William's love for adventure was a defining characteristic of his life. An avid windsurfer and hang glider, he often jumped off the cliffs of Cape Cod to catch the thermals. At the age of 74, he began participating in triathlons, demonstrating his unyielding spirit and vitality. Even into his 80s, William continued to compete alongside his granddaughters Michelle and Melanie, often winning his divisions. His last run was a memorable one-mile run at the age of 93 on New Year’s Day 2022 in Londonderry, NH, alongside his partner, Julie. 

His love for the outdoors extended to his home, where he took great pride in his gardens, lawn, homemade fish pond, and waterfall. William was known for his soft-spoken nature, boundless energy, and the warmth he shared with everyone. He never turned down a hug or a kiss, and his affection was a constant source of comfort to his family and friends. 

In his final years, William faced the challenges of dementia with the loving care and support of his daughter Mary, who ensured he was surrounded by love and comfort all the time. William is predeceased by his parents, siblings Richard (Dick) Dale Blood, Robert (Bob) Earl Blood, Carol Joyce Toomey, and Allen Holt Blood, his granddaughter Katie Blood as well as great nephew Tommy Toomey III. He is survived by his devoted partner of over 40 years, Julie Parkhurst, his 5 children, 12 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 2 step great grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces all of whom will carry forward his legacy of love, strength, and adventure. William also leaves behind his "Dunkin' Donuts Boys", whom he met for coffee for the last 30 years. William N. Blood Jr. lived a full and active life, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Visiting hours for William will be held in the McGaffigan Family Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Wednesday, August 21st from 4 - 8 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Pepperell VFW Post #3291, 55 Leighton Street, Pepperell, MA on Sunday, September 15th from 12 - 4 pm.