William A. Brown, Jr.

Holyoke - William A. Brown, Jr., known as "Billy Brown," passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69 on December 19, 2024, in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Born on January 11, 1955, he was the beloved son of the late Alvin and Shelia Kurtz. Billy proudly served in the United States Navy and recently retired from Western Builders, Inc., enjoying his retirement by pursuing his many passions. A true handyman, Billy was skilled in fixing almost anything! He had a sharp eye for photography, enjoyed spending time outdoors, often with his dog, Marshall, and was a passionate advocate for environmental causes, particularly through his support of the Arbor Day Foundation. Billy was predeceased by his life partner, Jody A. Stevens, in 2015, and his sister, Susan Brown, in 2017. He leaves behind cherished memories with his daughter, Megan Lagoy, son-in-law Mark Lagoy, and granddaughter Mckinley, all of Chicopee, MA as well as his sons, Ryan Brown and Brandon Brown of Holyoke, MA, and his three sisters: Patricia Bylicki of Chicopee, MA, Dariel Giroux of Holyoke, MA, and Judy Keith of South Hadley, MA, along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Though he is no longer with us, Billy's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The family requests that donations be made to the Arbor Day Foundation; www.arborday.org . New England Funeral & Cremation Center, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit William’s memorial page at www.nefcc.net for expressions of sympathy.