William R. Bixby

William R. Bixby, age 87, longtime resident of Merrimac, passed on July 17, 2025 at the High Pointe Hospice House in Haverhill, after a period of declining health. He was the beloved husband of Judith (Comley) Bixby, his wife of 63 years.

Born in Haverhill, MA, March 7, 1938, he was the son of the late Walter Irving Bixby Jr., and Anna Louise Tozier Bixby.

At 17, William enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 7, 1955, proudly serving until his honorable discharge on April 21, 1959, with the rank of SN (Seaman), and continued to fulfill his 4 year obligation with the Navy Reserves to April 3, 1963.

After his Military Service, he became an auto body mechanic for over 35 years for Jim Howe Chevrolet in Newton NH, as well as helping neighbors and friends with their dents and dings. He then drove a truck doing deliveries of large crates for Barton Corp. Once retired, “Bill” started building birdhouses in his garage and placed them around his yard so customers could stop by and chat, and eventually select a handcrafted beauty. He loved socializing with people making friends from near and far. He was well known around town as the birdhouse man.

Bill would do anything to help his family and friends, spending the time to help with building projects, fixing cars, even just making sure nearby workers had food and drink, quickly becoming friends.

Bill was an avid reader, and loved to go to yard sales on the weekends with his wife Judy looking for things he could repurpose.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Judith Lynn (Comley) Bixby; daughter, Sharon M Giles and husband John Giles of Sanbornville, NH; his son Richard William Bixby of Modesto CA., several step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brother, Walter Bixby, and his sisters, Brenda Stronach and Patricia Eacret.

Visiting hours will be held at Paul C Rogers Family Funeral Home, 36 West Main Street, Merrimac, on Saturday, July 26th, from 11-1PM followed by a Graveside Service at the Veterans Section at Locust Grove Cemetery, where he will be laid to eternal rest. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations in honor of William R. Bixby to the High Pointe Hospice House, 360 North Avenue, Haverhill, MA 01830.