William R. DeLeon, 71, of Buzzards Bay, died peacefully on October 18 with his loving and caring wife of 10 years, Judy Waniewski, at his side.

Born on June 9, 1942, in Hartford, CT, he relocated to Rhode Island to enjoy the ocean air and fishing. He was the son of the late Conrad and Marion (Walden) DeLeon.

Bill worked in management at Lorillard Tobacco Co. before he retired to Buzzards Bay.

He was an avid Boston and Celtics sports fan and liked watching Nascar. He immensely enjoyed his trips to Las Vegas and Foxwoods Casino, as well as Aruba and Florida.

He played and taught guitar, which was one of his greatest passions. He also enjoyed visiting his mother-in-law, Fran, in New Jersey, where he became an expert in the preparation and indulgence of Polish food.

He was the husband of the late Sandra (Whitehead) DeLeon; former husband of Jeanette Lazlo.

He is survived by his daughter, Lynne Maldonado and her husband, John, of Colchester, CT; his son, Troy DeLeon and his wife, Gloria, of East Hampton, CT. He is the grandfather of Troy II, Taylor, Kayla, and Evan; brother of Conrad DeLeon Jr. of Broomfield, CT; uncle of Scott and Darren.

Services were held on October 23 at Avery-Storti Funeral Home in Wakefield, RI. Burial followed at River Bend Cemetery, Westerly, RI.

His wife, Judy, would personally like to thank the emergency room and unit nurses and staff at Tobey Hospital for their care and compassion. Also, the CNAs, dietary and respiratory personnel for their concern, prayers, and well-wishes for my Bill. You all were always in our prayers. God bless all of you.

"Lift up your hearts and peace to thee, God wanted me now. He set me free."