William Lawrence Gross, Jr.

William Lawrence Gross, age 85, of Littleton, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at Ayer Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. He was the loving husband of Patricia Marie (Keene) Gross. He was dedicated to his wife above all else. She was the love of his life. They met when they were 12 years old at Dover Point, New Hampshire, swimming in the Piscataqua River. They were married for 60 years and raised their family in Littleton.

Bill was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on October 8, 1940. He was the son of the late William and Lumina (Savoie) Gross. He is survived by his wife, their two daughters, Jennifer Abbott and Susie Leroy, Jennifer’s husband Eugene Abbott, and grandchildren, Vanessa Abbott and Etienne Leroy. He is also survived by his sisters, Virginia Chase, Mary Anne Seney and her husband John, and Christine Bradley and her husband Robert; and his sister-in-law, Virginia (Keene) Cormier; and a host of other family and friends.

Known by many as “Uncle Bill,” he loved to take long drives around New England and spent many days at the Plum Island bird sanctuary. He was known for his love for antique cars and was Bill Russell’s biggest fan. Friends and family frequently described him as one of the most intelligent people they have ever met: you did not want to play Trivial Pursuit against Bill! He was a member of the Stoney Brook Fish and Game Club and an official pocket knife-carrying member of “The Bubs”.

Bill’s family is so thankful for the staff at Ayer Valley: their patience and care for their father through his most difficult days have been a blessing.

Services will be scheduled at a later date.

 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in William’s name to the Ayer Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 400 Groton Road, Ayer, MA 01432.

Arrangements under the care of the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King St., Littleton, Massachusetts. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com