Obituary of William E. Reilly

William Edward Reilly, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, at the age of 97.

William was born on January 14, 1929, in Troy, New York, and grew up in Valley Falls, New York, where he was shaped by a strong Roman Catholic upbringing that guided his values throughout his life. His faith remained a steady and enduring source of strength, grounding him in humility, service, and deep devotion to family.

William was married for 62 years to the love of his life, Margaret Mary (O’Connor) Reilly of Schaghticoke, New York. Their marriage was a testament to faith, partnership, and enduring love. Together they raised five children: Anne E. Reilly (husband Kurt D. Saari) of Jupiter, Florida; Sara E. Reilly of Litchfield, Connecticut; William E. Reilly, Jr. of Norwalk, Connecticut; Lawrence F. Reilly of Pittsfield, Massachusetts; and Eileen M. Reilly (husband John D. Ruocco) of Brooklyn, New York.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Devin M. Saari (wife Aleesa H. Saari) of Jupiter, Florida; Caroline M. Saari of Salem, Massachusetts; and Paul W. Ruocco of Brooklyn, New York. He is also survived by his sister, Helene R. Dunne, and was predeceased by his brother, James J. Reilly.

William earned his Bachelor of Business Administration at Siena College. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, including time stationed in Alaska.

Following his military service, William built a long and respected career with GMAC. He served as a Branch Manager in Providence, Rhode Island, before later working in the Executive Offices of General Motors on Fifth Avenue in New York City. During these years, he and his wife raised their family in Scarsdale, New York, creating a home filled with stability, love, and strong values.

William found deep fulfillment in gardening, woodworking, and the careful restoration of his family home—projects that reflected his care, craftsmanship, and respect for tradition. He loved the outdoors and spent many cherished summers in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. In retirement he returned to Valley Falls, NY.

A wake will be held at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m., on Friday, March 6, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, 35 Hill Street, Greenwich, New York. For those not able to join in person, the Funeral Mass will be livestreamed at the following:

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A reception will follow at Wallie’s of Greenwich, 54 Main Street, Greenwich, New York.
 

Graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John's Cemetery, NY-40 & Stillwater Bridge Rd. Schaghticoke, NY 12154

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in William’s memory to Rensselaer County Aging (Meals on Wheels of Rensselaer County), St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, and the New England Region Carriage Association of America.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted by his family to the White-Sanvidge Funeral Home.