William James Keefe

HADLEY, MA—William James “Bill” Keefe, 86, a devoted husband, beloved father, community pillar, and lifelong pharmacist, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 29, 2025 in Hadley, MA.

Bill was born on October 31, 1939, in Franklin, New Hampshire, to Aubrey and Florence Keefe. He spent the majority of his life in Rochester, NH, where he built a life defined by hard work, service, and deep familial love.

In 1956, Bill met the love of his life, Janet Hobson. They were married in 1963, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span 63 years. Together, they purchased Carney Drug, where Bill practiced pharmacy, working side-by-side with Jan to serve and care for their community for decades.

A true community servant, Bill was an active and dedicated member of many local organizations, including the Rochester Chamber of Commerce, the Kiwanis Club, the Boys and Girls Club, and the New Hampshire Association of Pharmacists. While he and Jan had many friends, they treasured their lifelong friendship with Len and Bev Harvie and their extended family.

Bill had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and he enjoyed golf. He played competitive softball into his 40s. He strongly believed that sports were a tool for individual development and a catalyst for becoming an important contributor to a team; because of this, he made sure that kids and adults alike had the tools and equipment they needed to participate. In his later years, he especially loved watching baseball, with a special interest in following his son’s teams. However, above all his interests, Bill’s greatest joy came from being married to Jan.

Bill is survived by his wife, Janet "Jan" Keefe; his children, Kimberly "Kim" Keefe Swasey (William) and James "Jamie" W. Keefe (Robyn); his sister, Marilyn Keefe; and his niece, Florence Canter, whom he considered a daughter. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Brigham, Kate, Brooks, step-grandchild Emma, and his extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey and Florence Keefe; his parents-in-law, Arthur and Norma Hobson; and his brother-in-law, Jack Hobson.

The family has chosen to hold a private interment at Pine Grove Cemetery in Fryeburg, Maine at a later date. Cards can be send to Janet Keefe at Hadley Pointe Nursing Home, 20 . Maple Street Hadley, MA 01035. Ahearn Funeral Home, Northampton, MA. is entrusted with arrangements.