William (Bill) Martin Jr.

William L. Martin Jr.

William L. Martin Jr., 92, of Brookfield, Connecticut, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones, on July 4, 2026, at New Milford Hospital.

William, affectionately known as Bill or Billy, was born on July 27, 1933, in Danbury, Connecticut, to William and Mary Martin. He attended St. Peter School and graduated from Danbury High School in 1953. He proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1956, stationed at the 34th General Hospital in La Chapelle-Saint-Mesmin, France. During his military service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. While overseas, Bill embraced the opportunity to travel throughout Europe, visiting Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy—experiences he cherished throughout his life.

Following his honorable discharge, Bill continued his education by graduating from the American Institute of Banking in New York City and the Williams College New England School of Banking in Williamstown, Massachusetts. He went on to enjoy a successful 40-year career in banking management with City Trust (formerly City National Bank) and Nutmeg Federal Credit Union. Throughout his career, he was an active member of the American Bankers Association.

In the early 1960s, Bill met the love of his life, Mary Lou Martin, née Ermentraut. They were married on September 4, 1966, at St. Peter Church in Danbury. They began their married life in Danbury before settling in Brookfield in 1972, where they lovingly raised their daughter, Colleen.

Bill believed deeply in giving back to his community. He served as Treasurer and Secretary of the Brookfield Lions Club and as Treasurer of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's Danbury Region.

A devoted lifelong member of St. Peter Parish of Danbury, he also attended St. Joseph Church of Brookfield.

Bill retired from banking in 1996 to become the full-time caregiver for his beloved wife. With unwavering love and dedication, he cared for Mary Lou at home until her passing in January 2003. After her death, Bill began volunteering at Danbury Hospital to stay active and serve others. What began as volunteer work soon became a second career. He became a familiar and welcoming face at the information desk in the Stroock Building, where he greeted patients, visitors, and staff with kindness, offering directions, assistance, and a warm smile to everyone who crossed his path. He finally retired at the remarkable age of 88.

Bill found joy in music, gardening, antiques, traveling, and, above all, spending time with his family. Those who knew him will remember his gentle nature, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and selfless devotion to the people he loved. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose kindness touched countless lives. His greatest gift was making people feel welcome, cared for, and valued—a legacy that will live on in the many lives he touched.

Bill was predeceased by his parents; his beloved wife, Mary Lou; and his sister, Teresa Gereg.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Colleen (Carlos) Martins; his cherished grandchildren, Carlos Jr. (Katherine), Corrine (Tyler Gross), and Connor Martins (Julia Lane); his treasured great-grandchildren, Simon and Cody Martins; his beloved nieces, Brenda Gereg-Aurelia and Nancy Grimes, who held a very special place in his heart; his dear cousin, Kathy Haddy; as well as many other nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

In keeping with Bill's wishes, there will be no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter's Church, 121 Main Street, Danbury, Connecticut. Entombment will take place in the Mausoleum of St. Peter Cemetery with Military Honors, 71 Lake Avenue Extension, Danbury.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, 2 Prospect Hill, Stockbridge, MA  01262

Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing Bill's legacy of love, kindness, and quiet service will continue through all those whose lives he touched.