William L. Nicholson

William L. Nicholson, Sr., a man who will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his community, his love for his family, and his kindness and generosity, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at his home in Danvers. He was 88.

Born in Salem on September 2, 1935, he was the son of the late Harold and Anne (Stewart) Nicholson.

Bill was raised and educated in Salem, graduating from Salem High School. He served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean era, where he was stationed in Texas as a tank commander. In 1958, Bill moved to Danvers with his beloved wife, Sallyanne, where he became a cherished member of the community.

Bill had a long and distinguished career as a salesman at Paine’s Furniture, working in both Peabody and Boston, and later retiring from Tompkins Furniture in Danvers. Beyond his professional life, Bill was deeply committed to serving his community. He was an active volunteer, contributing his time and energy to the Planning Board, the Zoning Board of Appeals, the River Committee, where he led the Santa by the Sea planning for over a decade, and as a Precinct 8 Town Meeting Member for more than forty years. He also served a term on the Danvers Select Board and was a member of the Danvers Kiwanis Club. Whenever an ad hoc or study committee was formed, especially involving land use, Bill was always willing to volunteer and share his expertise.

In 1989, he was chosen Danvers’ Citizen of the Year by the Danvers Community Council and was the 2004 recipient of the Baron Mayer Award for his commitment to the betterment of Danvers.

Bill had a passion for birdwatching and fishing, but his greatest joy was spending time with his beloved family. He was predeceased by his cherished wife, Sallyanne (St. Clair) Nicholson, and his four siblings, Phyllis, Jean, David, and Roger.

He leaves behind two children, William Nicholson Jr. and his wife Andrea of Winchester, and Jennifer Smith and her husband Richard of Danvers. He was a proud grandfather to Sarah and Mary Nicholson, and Richard and Alexander Smith. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

His funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 in C.R. Lyons & Sons Funeral Directors, 28 Elm St., Danvers. Burial will follow in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Danvers. Visiting hours are Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s memory may be made to the Danvers People-to-People Food Pantry, P.O. Box 2076, Danvers, MA 01923. Guestbook available at www.LyonsFuneral.com.