William J. “Bill” Dooley was born on March 20, 1939, in Brooklyn, New York, the first child of James Patrick Dooley and Grace Cecilia Fryer. He was the eldest of five children, Edward Martin Dooley, MaryAnn Cecilia Dooley, Margaret Rose Dooley, and Catherine Ann Dooley followed. He was preceded in death by his beloved sisters, Margaret Rose and Catherine Ann, who welcomed him home to our merciful Lord.

Raised in a proud Irish Catholic family, Bill carried the values of faith, integrity, hard work, and devotion throughout his life. His Catholic education and Irish heritage shaped the man he became—a man of conviction, loyalty, and unwavering love for his family.

In 1957, Bill answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. He proudly served aboard the USS Sea Owl (SS-405) based out of New London, Conn. in the Silent Service Submarine Force, attaining the rank of Torpedoman Third Class before receiving an honorable discharge in 1960. His years of military service reflected the courage, discipline, and patriotism that remained with him for the rest of his life.

After returning home, Bill dedicated his civilian career to protecting and serving others. He spent many years in law enforcement, retiring after distinguished service with the Suffolk County Police Department on Long Island, New York, and later with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Department in Florida. His commitment to justice and public service earned the respect of both his colleagues and the communities he served.

Of all his accomplishments, Bill was proudest of his family. He shared 67 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Evelyn. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, faith, and unwavering commitment.

He leaves behind his devoted wife, Evelyn; his children, William Martin, Edward Michael, and Ericka Regina; his cherished grandchildren, Vivian Jacqueline, Alexandra Lee, and Ronin Amaya; and great-granddaughter, Emersyn Ann. Bill and Evelyn played a large role in raising Hector, Evelyn’s brother.

Bill had an incredible gift for making memories. Whether he was singing, riding his bike, lifting weights, playing softball, tennis, pickleball, or bowling, he embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He loved traveling the country in an RV, always ready for the next adventure and the opportunity to spend time with those he loved most. He loved spending time with friends and making new friends everywhere they traveled to.

He was a kind and faithful Christian man who led by example through his generosity, strength, and steadfast love. Those who knew Bill also knew his spirited Irish temper—but it was always matched by a heart full of compassion, humor, and forgiveness.

After courageously struggling with illness for several years, Bill was called home to the Lord on July 1, 2026.

Although our hearts are broken by his passing, we are deeply grateful for the blessing of having shared our lives with him. His legacy of faith, service, love, and devotion will continue to live on through the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched.

Bill, you will be forever loved, deeply missed, and always remembered. Thank you for the example you set, the sacrifices you made, and the love you gave so freely. Until we meet again, you will remain forever in our hearts. 

Baldwin Brothers Funeral Home on Silver Springs Blvd. is honored to assist with final arrangements.