Melbourne "Bill" Babcock, Jr.

Melbourne “Bill” Babcock passed away peacefully on November 5th, 2024, in a room filled to capacity with his loving family.

Bill was born to Melbourne “Mel” Babcock and Elsie Fontaine Babcock on July 25th, 1938 in Lynn, MA. He grew up in Lynn with his three siblings, Jill, Mark, and Debra. He was the eldest of twenty-five grandchildren, and was a beloved nephew, cousin, and friend to many.

Bill graduated from St. Mary’s Boys High School in 1956 before proudly serving in the Marines from 1958 to 1962. In 1964, he married Lynere A. Babcock, whom he loved unconditionally for 60 years. The two began their family in Byfield, MA, where they lived on Grove Street for nearly six decades. There, they turned their house into a homebase for many. It is where they raised four children, hosted countless friends and neighbors, and was where so many of us turned when we needed a hug, a meal, or just a quick dip in the pool.

Bill worked for New England Telephone for 40 years. After his retirement, he spent every free moment with his family. Between his four children and thirteen grandchildren, his schedule was packed, and yet he never missed a game, graduation, or celebration. He racked up countless hours at the Graf Rink and drove hundreds of miles to gymnastics meets, dance competitions, musicals, and everything in between. He made sure his family knew that they were well-loved and that there was always someone cheering them on.

Bill’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew him as “Grumpy,” but he rarely lived up to his name. More often, he was funny and sharp, always ready to offer a well-timed joke, song, or story. Even towards the end, he managed to surprise us with how quick he was with his humor – he loved nothing more than making us laugh.

Bill was also unquestionably devoted to the places he loved, particularly the Park Lunch, where Lisa was always reliable with his VO Manhattan, and South Arm Campground, where he turned a lakeside campsite with a few picnic tables into a family tradition that will continue for years to come. He had a way of making any place feel special.

Although he would never take credit for it, Bill was beyond proud of the family he created and the life he built. We agree. By anyone’s calculations, his legacy is certainly something to be proud of.

Bill was predeceased by his brother Mark and sister Debra. He is survived by his sister Jill Babcock Silk of Beverly, MA, his four children, Katie Christie Demers and husband Bill Demers of Hampstead, NH, Mark Babcock of Gloucester, MA, Keith Babcock and wife Tracey Marino of Newburyport, MA, and Brian Babcock and wife Leah Babcock of Anchorage, AK, his thirteen grandchildren, Tyler, Jenna, Allie, Luke, Ryan, Sarah, Kate, Emily, Matthew, Bridget, Caroline, Zoe, and Piper, and his two great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Della.

We would like to offer our deepest gratitude to Ericka Lewis, who spent so much time caring for Grumpy and our family. We love and appreciate you more than you know. And thank you to the staff at both Fairview Senior Living and Home Health & Hospice Care for all your work. We are grateful for everyone who helped keep Bill comfortable in his final months.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Monday November 11, 2024 at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 AM Tuesday November 12, 2024 at Immaculate Conception Church, all are invited to join the family at the Church. Burial will be private at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Bill’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association.

For directions or to offer online condolences please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com

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