Salem – William J. Williamson a long time resident of Salem died peacefully Saturday morning, June 1, 2013 at the Kaplan Family Hospice House in Danvers surrounded by his family following a courageous two year battle with cancer.

Born in Salem, MA on September 29, 1950, William, known as "Billy" to all who knew and loved him, was the youngest son of the late Kathleen M. (Carney) and William D. Williamson. He was a graduate of Salem High School, Andover Institute of Business and North Andover Community College. Early in his career in retail management, Billy worked for both Almy's and Rich's Department stores for many years and was also a sales manager at American Graphics (a family owned and operated business) in Malden. Later on he held higher management positions at Big Lot's, Dollar Tree Stores and at A.J. Wright until he was unable to work due to his illness.

Billy was a dedicated Boston sports fan but Salem was where his heart was. He loved everything about Salem and could always be seen walking around the downtown area almost every day. He was a permanent fixture at the "Witch's Brew" where he shared many laughs with many good friends who were like family to him and was affectionately known there as "Billy Willy." He had a contagious laugh and you could always count on him to make you smile with some sort of a wise crack or joke. Billy also loved music (especially Tina Turner) and was known to rip it up on the dance floor on many occasions. He brought out the inner child in everyone who knew him and he could make you laugh until you cried. He often referred to himself as "The Man, the Myth, the Legend," and he always tried to treat others the way he wanted to be treated. That was our "Billy" and no words can possibly convey how much he was loved and will be missed. He was taken from us far too soon.

Billy is survived by his daughter, Julie Manninen and her husband, Erik, of Salem; a son, Joseph Williamson of Salem, New Hampshire; two grandchildren, whom he cherished, Ella Manninen and John "Jack" Manninen; a sister, Kathleen Adams and her husband David of Byfield, MA; a brother, Richard Williamson and his wife, Lucy of Salem; an aunt, Mary Carney of Danvers and many nieces and nephews whom he adored. Billy also leaves behind his best friend and long time companion, Donna Croteau of Salem.

Arrangements: Visiting hours will be held on Friday, June 7, 2013 from 4 P.M.to 8 P.M. at Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal Street (cor of North St), Salem followed by a memorial service at the Funeral Home at 8 P.M. A celebration of life gathering will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2013 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Witch's Brew Café, 156 Derby Street in Salem. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to the North Shore Cancer Walk/Run, "Witch's Brew Crew," 81 Highland Avenue, Salem, MA 01970, or to the Kaplan Family Hospice House at 78 Liberty Street, Danvers, MA 01923. For additional information or on line register book please call 978 744 0497 or visit www.MurphyFuneralHome.com.