William Dominic Leary

Bill was born on May 11, 1932, in Newport, RI, and was raised by his grandparents, William and Mary Soeira, in Middletown, RI. From an early age, Bill developed the quick wit and sense of humor that would become his trademark throughout life. His earliest ambition was to become a comedian. When once asked what made him laugh, he famously replied, “things that are funny, not silly.” Making others laugh and simply enjoying life were among the things he loved most.

He served in the United States Army from January 22, 1951, to January 25, 1954. During his service, he was assigned to the 101st AAA Battery, 3rd Army, and the 13th AAA Battery, 5th Army, where he served as a chief radar operator. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant and later continued his service in the Active Reserves.

After his military service, Bill dedicated 36 years to working for the Veterans Administration, where he built a career devoted to helping fellow veterans. Among his proudest professional accomplishments was his appointment to the Council of Chiefs, Region #1. He was also recognized with the Francis Roberts’ Rehabilitation Award for his work assisting several veterans through rehabilitation. His VA career included appointments in Tomah, WI, Albuquerque, NM, Providence, RI and Brockton, MA.

Bill married Suzanne(Grabinski) from La Crosse, Wisconsin, and the couple shared 36 years of marriage before her passing in 2018. Bill is predeceased by his step-son Thomas Adams (1990) and grandson Riley Adams (2024). Bill is survived by two step-sons, Anthony Adams and Timothy Adams and grandchildren Stephanie Adams, Lauren Adams, Thomas Adams, Matthew Adams and Alexis Adams; as well as his companion, Marie Lebaron.

Outside of work, Bill had many interests and talents. He enjoyed boxing, bowling, shuffleboard and playing pool. He proudly considered himself a devout fan of the Boston Red Sox. He also enjoyed performing and appeared in several minstrel shows.

Bill was a devoted and active member of St. Jerome Catholic Church in Largo, where he faithfully attended the 9 a.m. Mass each day and served as an usher for over 30 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for 62 years.

Those who knew Bill will remember his kindness, humor, and the joy he brought. When asked how he wished to be remembered, Bill simply said he hoped to be remembered as a nice person who cared for others.

Visitation will be held at Serenity Funeral Home on March 26, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a rosary service beginning at 6:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 10895 Hamlin Boulevard, Largo, Florida, on March 27, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. He will be interred at St. Columba Cemetery in Middletown, RI.

Bill will be remembered for the laughter he shared, the kindness he showed, and the many lives he touched.