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Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home
William F. (Bill) Bassett, Jr.
July 27, 1941 ? January 3, 2026
William (Bill) Francis Bassett, Jr., 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Charlene Manor in Greenfield, Massachusetts. A lifelong resident of Franklin County, Bill was born on July 27, 1941, in Montague, Massachusetts, to William Francis Bassett, Sr., and Ellen Katherine (Dubreuil) Bassett.
Bill graduated from Greenfield High School in 1959, where he was already known for his leadership, creativity, and commitment to service?values first shaped by earning the rank of Eagle Scout, an achievement that reflected the integrity and dedication he carried throughout his life. He went on to pursue his passion for art and education, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Massachusetts College of Art and later completing a Master?s degree in Education at the University of Massachusetts. These academic achievements laid the foundation for a lifelong career dedicated to teaching, mentorship, and leadership. Over the years, Bill served the Greenfield community as an art teacher, vice principal, and ultimately principal of Greenfield High School.
In 1963, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Rose-Marie. Their marriage of more than six decades was the cornerstone of his life. Together they began their family in Niskayuna, New York, where Bill started his career teaching art to high school students. In 1966, they returned to Greenfield with their young son, William Edward, and later welcomed a daughter, Jennifer Lyn. Bill was deeply devoted to his family, finding his greatest joy in being a loving husband, father, grandfather, and role model.
A gifted artist and passionate educator, Bill loved sharing his creativity with others. He often created additional art classes outside of regular school hours to further inspire his students. In the 1980s, Bill and his art classes painted murals on buildings throughout the city of Greenfield; remnants of one such mural remain visible on the side of what was once the Country Jeweler at the corner of Chapman and Main Streets. Deeply committed to community engagement, Bill also designed a well-received class project that encouraged students to research historic buildings by interacting directly with longtime community members. His paintings have been displayed in Greenfield City Hall, private residences, and galleries throughout New England.
Bill?s dedication to service extended well beyond the classroom. He coached football and track, volunteered with the YMCA, and served for many years as a Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America, sharing his love of learning, leadership, and the outdoors with generations of young people. He also gave generously of his time to Blessed Trinity Parish and numerous community projects. Bill was known for his thoughtfulness, humility, and genuine care for his family, students, neighbors, and friends.
In his personal life, Bill found great fulfillment in painting and took pride in maintaining his home with care and craftsmanship. During the winter months, he enjoyed cross- country skiing through the New England landscapes he loved so dearly?and so often captured in his art.
Bill is lovingly remembered by his wife, Rose-Marie; his son, William Edward; his daughter, Jennifer Lyn; his brother, Edward, and sister-in-law, Lonna; his daughter-in- law, Kathie; his grandchildren, Cooper, Lucia, and Sam; his niece, Lynette, and her family; and his nephew, Scott.
He was predeceased by his father, William Francis Bassett, Sr., and his mother, Ellen Katherine Dubreuil.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church of the Blessed Trinity Parish, 135 Main St., Greenfield, with a reception to follow in the Fr. Casey Hall. Those who wish to honor Bill?s life and legacy are welcome to attend.
May William?s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched through teaching, coaching, volunteering, and friendship.
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Bassett Family Association Database
1941 - 2026 (84 years)