William J. Barry

BARRE – William J. Barry, 89, of Batchelder Street passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024, at his home.

Born on June 1, 1934, to William and Dorothy (Whelan) Barry. Following high school graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served for many years. He then began his formal education and graduated from Boston University with a degree in Geology. Bill became an Earth Science Teacher at Manchester Elementary School in Manchester, VT. It was in Manchester that he met and married Virginia Livingston with whom he had one son, David Barry. He also became a stepfather to her two sons, Steve and Bruce Kuni.

Concurrent with teaching, he achieved a Master of Education from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. He made a vocational change to join the Vermont Department of Civil Defense. Other professional opportunities arose and as a hazardous materials specialist he went on to acquire the informal title of Spill Bill.

Bill was a devoted husband and father and next to his family, he loved the fire service, Vermont history and brass music. Wherever he was and whatever he was doing, a fire department was always a component of his life. His longest service was as a volunteer firefighter/EMT with Barre City. He also became a certified Fire School instructor and taught related courses throughout the state. As a retiree he found a perfect niche within the Vermont Granite Museum of Barre, incorporating his love of Vermont history and teaching experience.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Virginia Barry, his stepsons Steve (Jacqueline) Kuni and Bruce (Marci) Kuni, his son David (Michele) Barry, his grandchildren Kayla Kuni, Lindsey (Garrett) King, Nickolas Belleville and James (Jennifer) Chatham and his great-grandchildren Kayden and Wesley King.

The service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center, VT. In keeping with his wishes there will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Vermont Humane Society, 1589 VT-14S, East Montpelier, VT  05651.