Geoffrey Boothroyd

Geoffrey Boothroyd, a renowned British educator and pioneer in the field of industrial and manufacturing engineering, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2024, at the age of 91. The firstborn child of Arthur and Annie Boothroyd, he leaves behind his brother, Arthur, of San Diego, California and two daughters, Lynda Boothroyd of Sarasota, Florida and Janet (John) Gilligan of Wakefield, Rhode Island. He also leaves behind grandchildren, Keith Gilligan and Katie (Shane) Fairbrother and great-grandson, Kai Thomas Fairbrother.

Born in Radcliffe, Manchester, England on November 18, 1932, Geoffrey faced challenges early in life, including the loss of his father at a young age and the experience of being evacuated during the German air bombings of World War II. Geoffrey persevered and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from the University of London in 1956, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in 1962 and a Doctor of Science in 1974. He wed Shirley Lewis in 1954 and was a devoted husband to her for 64 years until her death in 2018. In 1967, Geoffrey moved with Shirley, Janet, and Lynda to the United States. He continued his journey in academia at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and later at the University of Rhode Island, residing for 28 years in Wakefield, RI. Known for his kindness, wisdom, and generosity, he was a mentor and inspiration to many of his students.

In addition to academia, Geoffrey co-founded and served as the president of Boothroyd Dewhurst, Inc. His work here was instrumental in the development and popularization of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA.) This methodology helped achieve dramatic cost savings across a wide spectrum of global industries. His contributions to the field were recognized nationally when he was awarded the National Medal of Science by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, honoring his significant impact on manufacturing and engineering.

Geoffrey was a highly devoted family man, cherishing his role as a husband and father, balancing his professional achievements with a rich and rewarding personal life. His hobbies included model railway construction, tennis, golf, classical music appreciation, and watercolor painting.

Services are private.