William James Barrett, a longtime resident of Lexington known for his warmth, humor, and deep love of family, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was 93 years old.

Born in Somerville on November 15, 1932, Bill was the son of the late William and Marie (Pierro) Barrett. Following the tragic loss of his mother, Bill moved to Lexington at the age of five to live with his Italian grandparents. Growing up in a bustling, affectionate household surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles , and cousins became a lifelong source of joy and grounding for him. The love, resilience, and sense of humor shaped during those early years remained at the center of who he was throughout his life.

Bill attended Arlington and Lexington schools before graduating from Lexington High School in 1951. During his high school years, he distinguished himself as a talented three-sport athlete in football, hockey, and baseball. Though he had opportunities to continue playing sports in college, Bill chose instead to follow in his father's footsteps and serve his country by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps.

Bill proudly served during the Korean War, where he was injured in action while protecting his commanding officer. For his courage and sacrifice, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an honor he carried with quiet humility throughout his life.

On October 12, 1956, Bill married his beloved high school sweetheart, Jean (Harris) Barrett. In 1965, they moved into the Lexington home where they would share almost seven decades of devotion, laughter, family gatherings, and cherished memories.

An enthusiastic sports fan throughout his life, Bill passionately followed football, baseball, and hockey. But more importantly, he believed deeply in the power of sports to shape young people and build community. After returning home from military service, he poured his love of athletics into coaching, mentoring, and supporting the next generation. In the early 1970s, he became the first president of Lexington Pop Warner Football and was also asked to be the Little League President and happily accepted that roll, helping to build a program that positively impacted countless young athletes and families over the decades.

Bill and his son Gil opened Barrett's Sunoco in 1993. Their welcoming personalities and knowledge made it a popular spot until 1995 when Bill retired, and Gil's family went north.

Above all else, Bill's greatest devotion was always his family. He believed wholeheartedly that family was the most important thing in life, and he embraced every stage of his growing family with pride, humor, and open arms.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean, of Lexington; his daughter, Wendy Barrett of Lexington; his sons, Matt Barrett of Marblehead and Gil Barrett of Barnstead, New Hampshire; and his nine grandchildren: Sean, Patrick, Ryan, Christian, Amy, Tessa, Julie, Ryan O,Matt, McKenna, and Will. He also warmly welcomed Erin, Jessica, Victor, David, Russ, Kerry and Connor into the family. Bill was the proud great-grandfather of Chase, Ean, Raylen, Elizabeth and Eddie

He was predeceased by his younger siblings, Bob Barrett of Holliston and Betty Barrett of Arlington.

Bill's caring spirit, contagious sense of humor, quiet strength, and unwavering love for his family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday May 22 at First Parish In Lexington, 7 Harrington Rd. Lexington at 10:30am. Relatives and freinds are kindly invited. Interment at Westview Cemetery, Lexington.