William Arthur Darrach

It is with heavy hearts, but love and gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the passing of William Arthur Darrach, a friendly, humble and wonderful man devoted to his family, on August 1, 2025 at the age of 98.

Born in New Argyle, Prince Edward Island, in 1927, Bill was one of nine children of the late Daniel and Catherine Ann (Katie Ann) Darrach. From a young age, he worked hard alongside his family on their farm and on the water as a lobster fisherman.

In 1953 he married Mildred MacKinnon, also from New Argyle, and the couple moved to Boston the following year to build a life and raise a family. Bill found meaningful work as a skilled finish carpenter and cabinetmaker with Custance Brothers in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he remained for over 40 years. His craftsmanship lives on in the many beautiful pieces he created for his family, each built with care, precision, and quiet pride.

Bill was happiest at home—whether tending to his garden, enjoying a project in his workshop, or watching the Boston Bruins. Bill also enjoyed going to church and spent many years serving as an usher. Summers were especially treasured, spent on PEI visiting family and returning to his roots on the farm with his brothers.

After retiring in 1991, Bill and Mildred purchased and lovingly restored a farmhouse in Meadowbank, PEI. For the next two decades, they spent half the year on the island, reconnecting with lifelong friends and family, embracing the land and community they loved.

In his later years, Bill found great joy in family gatherings on Cape Cod where his gentle presence and warm smile were a source of comfort and joy. He continued to spend time on woodworking projects such as building birdhouses. He also took pride in keeping his home and yard in pristine condition. Many times when he was in the yard puttering around you would often hear yells of “Hi Bill !!”from both parents and kids as he became quite a celebrity in the neighborhood for his boundless energy and friendliness. During the winter months, he enjoyed quiet moments working on puzzles and watching the birds visit his custom birdhouses.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at BMC South for all of their life saving efforts. Also thank you to Brian Rosenberg, MD and Robin Childress, PA at Lahey Clinic for the exceptional care they provided him throughout the years.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his family, extended relatives, and friends across two countries and many generations.

Bill leaves behind his wife Mildred of 72 years, daughters Beryl, Donna and her partner Kenny, and Gail. Grandchildren, Crystal and her husband Dave, Maria, Samantha, and Christopher, Great grandchildren, David, Sadie, and Donovan. Great great grandchildren Olive, Eleanor, and Myles.

He also leaves behind sisters Hilda MacKinnon and her late husband Garfield, and Curtis Crozier and her husband Lea. Predeceased by brother Hector Darrach and his wife Ina, brother Alex Darrach and his wife Florence, sister Catherine McNevin and her husband Robert, brother Neil Darrach, brother Duncan Darrach and his wife Beryl, sister Florence Campbell and her husband Lowell, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Resting peacefully at Gillooly Funeral Home. There will be a private ceremony for family members.

Celebration of life and burial at a later date on Prince Edward Island, Canada.