William J. Tully

He married his “bride” Ruthie in 1942 at the age of 20 before going oversees to fight in World War II. Bill and Ruth were together for 75 years until she passed away. He is now at peace with her again.

William served in the Navy as a Motor Machinist’s Mate, First Class, aboard a troop carrying Landing Craft. He helped land the 1st Marine Division on the shorelines of Guadalcanal. He was in the battles of Anguar and Leyte Gulf, considered the largest Naval Battle in WWII. He was honorably discharged in October 1945. He was one of those last surviving few that you will see wearing the hat bearing the insignia of a WWII unit and have the honor of shaking their hand.

William was a West Hartford Police Force Patrolman and Captain for 23 years; he was a member of the police scuba recovery team and gun club. He retired from the US Army Reserves as a Sargent Major after 30 years of service. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, VFW and American Legion Post 96 (1969-70 Post Commander). He was the West Hartford Representative for the Soldier, sailors, & Marine fund. He is a recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal. Ruth and Bill moved to Florida in their retirement where they lived, loved, traveled and danced every chance they got for 30 years.

Bill is survived by his son, Brian Tully and his wife De, his daughter Mary Ellen Tully Adams and her husband Dale, grandchildren Mikaila Adams, William Brian Boru Tully, Paige and Lily Monsees.

He is preceded in death by his parents Patrick and Celia (Kelly) Tully, Brothers John, Jim, Joe Tully and sister Mary Tully Lamb.

His Funeral Mass will be offered at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church (Our Lady of Hope Parish) 78 Litchfield Rd., Harwinton CT on Thursday March 10th at Noon. Burial will be in Florida at a future date. The DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 690 Woodtick Rd., Wolcott is assisting with the arrangements. For online condolences and directions please visit, www.dellavecchiawolcott.com