William P. McLellan

Billy was the kind of person who always did what was right for his family, neighbors, and community. Quiet, humble, and deeply principled, he led not through words but through consistent action and compassion. Whether serving as a teacher, councilman, police officer, or board member, Billy approached every role with integrity and a genuine desire to help others.

A proud Weehawken native, Billy’s public service began in the 1970s when he was elected First Ward Committeeman (Council Member). At a time when the township was facing a tumultuous period, Billy stepped up to serve, offering steady leadership and a calming presence to guide the township through difficult years. He also served as Township Treasurer and Custodian of School Monies, always looking for ways to strengthen the community from the inside out.

Billy held a degree in History and Criminal Justice from Jersey City State College (NJCU). He worked as a schoolteacher early in his career and later taught at the police academy, mentoring countless young officers. His career was marked by numerous commendations for valor, bravery, and merit earned not through self-promotion, but by consistently putting others first and answering every call with quiet courage.

He was a loyal member of the Weehawken Elks Lodge #1456 and proudly served on numerous community boards and civic organizations throughout his life. His quiet leadership and selflessness left a lasting impression on everyone around him.

Billy cherished time with his family above all. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Christina, and his wife, Michelle, the love of his life and his unwavering partner. He was predeceased by his parents, James Sr. and Grace (Arata) McLellan, and is survived by his brothers, James Jr. (Etsuko) and Kevin. He adored his nieces and nephews, Sean (Shana), Sharon (Langdon), and Chris, treating them as if they were his own children. He was also a proud and loving great-uncle to their children: Shane and Ryan, and Chase and Kairi, who brought him endless joy.

Upon his retirement, Billy found joy in life’s simple pleasures, traveling to Florida with Michelle and close friends, where he especially cherished his peaceful sunrise walks. He spent his days doing what brought him happiness: reading, walking, and staying closely connected to the people and community he loved.

Outside of public service, Billy was a steady, thoughtful, and generous presence, never asking for much but always giving everything.

His legacy is one of quiet strength, selfless service, and enduring love. As a father, brother, husband, public servant, protector, mentor, and friend, Billy gave everything he had to the people and places he cared about. He leaves behind a grateful family, a stronger township, and a lasting example of what true commitment to community looks like.

Visitation will be held at Leber Funeral Home, located at Leber/ Mack Memorial Home, 1245 Paterson Plank Road, Secaucus, NJ, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, April 6, 2025. A funeral mass will follow at Saint Lawrence Church, 22 Hackensack Avenue, Weehawken, NJ, on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 9:30 AM. Family and friends are welcome to gather beginning at 9:15 AM. William will be laid to rest at Madonna Cemetery and Mausoleum in Fort Lee, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s memory to the Weehawken Volunteer First Aid Squad, PO Box 4917, Weehawken, NJ 07086, or at wvfas.org. , a cause he deeply respected and supported throughout his life and career.