Obituary of William Joseph Damon

William Joseph Damon
12/26/50 – 5/23/25

William "Bill" Joseph Damon, aged 74, peacefully passed away at home on May 23, 2025, in Pine Bush, New York, after a long illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. Bill’s life was a testament to the power of love, compassion, dedication, kindness and gentle spirit.

Born on December 26, 1950, in New York City, Bill was the cherished son of the late William Damon and Madeline Degenhardt. From a young age, Bill’s gentle spirit and kindness became apparent. He grew up immersed in the vibrancy of Manhattan and attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, graduating to St. Agnes High School where he distinguished himself on the varsity basketball team and developed an enduring lifelong passion for sports. After high school, Bill married Margaret (Peggy) Dillon and they welcomed a son, William “Bill” Joseph Damon Jr. Though the marriage was brief, his love for his son was a constant throughout his life.

Bill pursued higher education at Borough of Manhattan Community College, graduating with honors as valedictorian with an associate’s degree in applied science (AAS) in respiratory therapy. His resilience, determination, and integrity marked a fulfilling career path in medical care that would span decades.
At a church event, Bill met the love of his life, Colleen Fleming, and they were united in marriage on October 27, 1979. Together they created a nurturing home and welcomed two children, daughter Sarah Lauren Damon in 1983 and son Brian Fleming Damon in 1988. Soon after, Bill and his growing family relocated to upstate New York, among the picturesque Shawangunk Mountains. He continued his educational journey at SUNY New Paltz, earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Psychology.

As a Respiratory Therapist (RRT), Bill dedicated his career to the compassionate care of others. Throughout his accomplished tenure, he held prestigious positions including Director of Respiratory Therapy at Bird S. Coler Hospital on Roosevelt Island, St. Francis Hospital in Poughkeepsie, and Helen Hayes Rehabilitation Hospital in Haverstraw, before spending 27 devoted years serving patients at Horton Hospital and its successors in Middletown, New York. His ability to support individuals with developmental disabilities impressed colleagues, patients, and their families.   

A devoted family man, Bill was actively involved in his children's activities, from coaching his daughter’s softball team to cheering on his son in little league, varsity football and golf teams. A man of varied interests, Bill was an enthusiastic New York Mets and Giants fan, sharing his love of sports with his family by attending games, training camps and securing cherished autographs.

Bill embraced life fully. He was known among family and friends for his jovial explorations leading to undiscovered roads, towns, ice cream stands, and search for new golf courses to play on. Bill brought joy to his family through his love of cooking, especially mastering an old family recipe known as "Pasta Damon," integrating his Italian heritage into a treasured favorite. He was a devoted supporter of his wife and children’s work and academic endeavors, encouraging continued growth and celebrating  achievements.

Committed to his community, Bill volunteered for the Pine Bush Ambulance Corps, the National Board of Respiratory Therapist’s Annual Conference, and with his wife, the Country Quilters Guild Annual Quilt Show, Pine Bush Parent-Teachers Association Reflection Program, and the Edward J. Russell Elementary School Student Gazette. The legacy Bill leaves was curated with love: a man who embodied respect, charity, and unwavering support for his family, friends, and community. He was an active listener, compassionate pillar, and a compass guiding his loved ones in all of life's directions.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife Colleen Fleming Damon, his children Bill, Sarah, Brian, and daughters-in-law Vanessa and Shanely Saragrace, his grandson Anthony Damon Esq., his sister Madeline Junior, and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is predeceased by sisters Marie Harkness, Camille Loye Grossbauer, Dorothy Gassert, his parents, and paternal grandparents George Damon, Beatrice O'Connor, and maternal grandparents Theodore Degenhardt and Catherine Hessel.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on June 21st at 12:00 PM at the Stone Church in Cragsmoor, New York. A reception will follow at Third & Company in Walker Valley, New York. A private burial will be held on Sunday, June 22nd at the William Henry Lee Memorial Cemetery in New Marlborough, Massachusetts. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be offered to Hospice of Orange and Sullivan, Newburgh, N.Y., or Regional Hospice Center for Comfort Care and Healing, Danbury, CT as a tribute to his life of service. Services directed by Richard Lalli of Gagan Funeral Home in Pine Bush, New York.

As we say goodbye, let us remember the words of Psalm 66:1-2: "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: Sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious." Bill's joyful spirit will forever be remembered by those he touched. He leaves a legacy of love, integrity, constancy, and strength. He will be deeply missed and always remembered.