William E Constant

Born in Fairhaven, the son of the late Wilfred and Rosilda Constant, he spent most of his life in New Bedford. He worked at Giusti’s Baking Co., Artcraft Sign Co., as a Meat Cutter at Otis Air Force Base and retired as a Maintenance Supervisor at the Cape Cod Canal.

Bill was a lifetime member of Post 166 American Legion and Disabled American Veterans. During World War II he served his country with distinction and valor as a proud member of the US Navy. He was an avid Racing Pigeon Enthusiast. Bill was a committed member of St. Mary’s Church in New Bedford. Upon his retirement he was honored to assume the daily responsibility of opening the church doors and preparing the church for daily mass. He was a Eucharistic Minister, Senior Altar Server, Usher and Greeter at the 4 o’clock mass. He was a member of the St. Vincent DePaul Society since 1952 and received the top hat award for over 50 years of outstanding service for his parish. Bill was awarded the Marian Medal and was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus.

He is survived by his son William P. Constant and his wife Kristine; two granddaughters Dr. Katherine Knowles and her husband Dr. Ryan, Sarah Allen and her husband Matthew; three great-grandchildren Jack and Madeline Knowles and William R. Allen; two brothers Raymond and Adrian and many nieces and nephews.

He was the brother of the late Irene Nye, Blanche Alexander, Lorraine Hassler, Christine Hayes, Wilfred, Roland, Daniel, Henry, Joseph and Napoleon Constant.

Bill will be remembered as a jack of all trades, who enjoyed helping people; he led a good life and was happiest with family. He was a true gentleman.

Mr. Constant’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of the Acushnet Wing of the New Bedford Health Care Center. He especially enjoyed his time in the rehab center and planning and helping with their vegetable garden.

His funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 19, 2014 at 8:30AM from the ROCK FUNERAL HOME 1285 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford followed by his funeral mass at 9:30AM in St. Mary’s Church 343 Tarkiln Hill Rd., New Bedford. Visiting hours will be Tuesday from 4 to 7PM. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the St. Vincent DePaul Society of St. Mary’s Church in New Bedford. Burial will be in Pine Grove Cemetery, New Bedford. To send a tribute or for directions please visit: www.rock-funeralhome.com