William “Bill” C. Rawnsley Sr

Obituary for William C. Rawnsley, Sr.

A Legacy of Service, Dedication, and Community Involvement

William C. Rawnsley, Sr., born on April 29, 1932, passed away in 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by service, dedication, and deep community involvement. He was the beloved son of Milledge Rawnsley and Dorothy Ann May Knolton, whose guidance shaped his lifelong commitment to bettering the lives of others.

William’s educational journey began at Lowell High School, where he served as a cadet, continued at UMass Lowell until 1980, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Management. And further studies at Western New England College.

His devotion to his country was evident through distinguished military service. William served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Vietnam War, achieving the rank of Petty Officer First Class. His career spanned two significant conflicts, reflecting his unwavering commitment to national service and patriotism.

He was a prominent member of the Masons, serving as Worshipful Master of the Thomas Talbot Lodge in Billerica, Massachusetts. His involvement in Freemasonry included attaining the 32nd degree in the Scottish Rite and affiliations with the Major General Henry Knox Lodge in Boston, Valley of Lowell Scottish Rite, and Lowell York Rite, where he was a Knight Templar. William also served with the Aleppo Temple Shriners as the clown “ZEE” and was involved in various ritual degree teams, along with contributing to the Imperial Donor Relationship Committee.

William’s commitment to community service was recognized through numerous awards. He and his wife Barbara received the first Susan Leggett Trophy for Volunteerism from the City of Lowell, the Ambassadors of the Year award from the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau, and volunteer awards from the Lowell Transitional Shelter and Lowell National Historical Park. His involvement in local festivals and events exemplified his dedication to enriching community life.

His service to veterans and patriotic activities was evident in his roles within the American Legion, including serving as Commander of Lowell Post 87, participating in Middlesex County installation teams, acting as Grand Marshal of the 1973 Memorial Day Parade in Lowell, and serving as Massachusetts Son of the American Legion. He was a member of Voiture #41, participating as part of the “wrecking crew”.

William’s historical interests and patriotism shone through his involvement with the Chelmsford Colonial Minuteman, where he served as powder monkey for the Chelmsford Artillery and as gun captain for the last round fired during the Bicentennial at Fort Independence in Boston Harbor.

Professionally, William was a nationally certified professional cost analyst and estimator. He worked on numerous government contracts at Dynamic Research Corporation, earning respect for his expertise and dedication.

William was married twice, first to Patricia R. Rynne, with whom he had children William C. Rawnsley, Jr., Kevin, Patricia, Elizabeth, and Kathy. He was predeceased by two sons, Kenneth and Dennis. In 1982, he married Barbara Gilhart Merrill, who has since passed away. Together, they shared children Ray, Thomas, and Edward.

William’s life was marked by unwavering devotion to family, his service to the nation, and his active participation in charitable and community endeavors. His legacy of service, leadership, and community spirit will be remembered by all who knew him, and his contributions will continue to inspire future generations.

Funeral Notice

Visiting hour for William will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. – 12 Noon at Dolan Funeral Home, 106 Middlesex Street, North Chelmsford, MA 01863. A memorial service will immediately follow the visiting hour at 12 Noon at Dolan Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers please make a donation in his name to the Shriners hospital.