William J. Garrity, DO, MPH, FAAFSM, C-NMM/OMM, was born on June 6, 1953, in Salem, Massachusetts, to Arthur and Stephanie Garrity. He passed away unexpectedly on October 29, 2025. A devoted father of four and proud grandfather of eight, William was defined by his incomparable work ethic and unwavering dedication to providing for his family. He graduated magna cum laude from Boston College and earned a master’s degree from American International College. After graduating with honors from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, he completed four additional years of training in Internal Medicine and Pediatric/Adolescent Medicine at Yale New Haven Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital. William went on to open his own practice in Suffield, Connecticut, where he cared for patients like family for more than 35 years. Medicine was not only his profession but his calling — a gift he shared selflessly every day until the time of his passing. Beyond his devotion to medicine and family, William found joy in running — completing numerous marathons — as well as in classical music, reading, and gardening. He delighted in posing riddles and philosophical questions to any child or grandchild willing to ponder them. Above all, he taught those he loved to make every day count. William is predeceased by his eldest son, Steven. He is survived by his former wife and forever friend, Dawn E. Garrity; his children and grandchildren, Lauren Bagley (Ryan) and their children Chase and Bryce, Heather Russo (Matthew) and their children Olivia, Fiona, and Maxwell, and Douglas Garrity (Maggie) and their children Nora and Conor. William is predeceased by his brother, Michael Garrity and leaves behind brother Arthur Garrity and sisters, Kathleen Strunk and Patricia Warringer as well as many nieces and nephews. His life was one of purpose, compassion, and quiet strength — a legacy that will live on in the countless lives he touched.
Family and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday morning, November 12, 2025, at 10:00 in St. George’s Church in Guilford. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery. There will be No Calling Hours. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Assn. at www.heart.org. Arrangements are in care of the PORTO FUNERAL HOME, 234 Foxon Rd. (Rte 80), East Haven. Sign William’s guest book online at www.portofuneralhomes.net.
