William Burrows “Bill” Harmon, 86, of Suffield, CT, and Westfield, MA, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born on August 17, 1939, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Bill was the son of Sybil Morton Snow and Austin Ripley Harmon. He graduated from Williston Academy in 1957 and went on to attend Cornell University before completing his degree at the University of Massachusetts in 1965. His academic journey laid the foundation for a long and respected career as a Certified Public Accountant.

Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1962, achieving the rank of Specialist Fourth Class while stationed in Korea. He spoke often of his experiences in the DMZ, and his time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of duty and discipline that would carry through every aspect of his life.

Bill established his own accounting practice in Westfield, where he served clients with integrity and dedication for several decades until retiring in early 2025. He was an active member of both the National Association of Accountants and the Institute of Management Accountants. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Bill gave generously of his time and expertise to numerous civic and charitable organizations. He held positions of officer and director of several nonprofits throughout Westfield, including the Chamber of Commerce, Noble Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, American Red Cross Westfield Chapter, and the Westfield Industrial Development Finance Authority. He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce in 2015.

Bill’s commitment to community was matched only by his devotion to family. He shared over 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife Patricia “Dolly” (Bagge). Through their union, Bill embraced not only their life together but also the four children Pat brought into their marriage.

Bill delighted in spending time at his cherished cottage on Big Pond in Otis and aboard his and “Cap’n Doll’s” boat docked in Essex, CT. A skilled carpenter with a passion for small construction projects, Bill could often be found building or renovating – his lake house, basement, or a writing cottage for his “Patty.” He was an avid cruise traveler, making countless trips with various family members to Caribbean and European ports. Affectionately known as “Harmon” by his grandchildren, Bill found immense joy in their company. Whether attending family get-togethers or boating with the crew to Block Island, he treasured every opportunity to be part of their lives.

Bill was predeceased by his wife, Patricia Harmon, and his sister, Elizabeth Leshure. He is survived by his daughters Julie Harmon of Groveland, MA, and Laurie Harmon (Andrew Koontz) of Princeton, NJ; his brother Thomas Harmon (Karen) of Eastham, MA; stepchildren Brenda LeDuc and John Parker, Jr., of Southwick, Karen Parker of Springfield, and Heidi Colonna (Alfred) of Westfield; grandchildren Logan and Savannah LeDuc; Abby, Alaina, John, and Axel Parker; Desmond Marino, Kevin O’Brien, and AJ Colonna, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bill leaves behind a legacy defined by service – to country, community, profession, and most importantly, to family. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him, and continue to inspire acts of kindness and dedication for generations to come.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home, 624 College Highway, Southwick, MA. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Longmeadow Cemetery, 61 Williams Street, followed by a Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield, 28 West Silver Street, PO Box 128, Westfield, MA 01086.