It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Brian Leathers, “Bill”, 81, lifelong resident of Haverhill, Massachusetts, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Lawrence General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family, after a brief but difficult battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Haverhill, Massachusetts, he was the son of the late, Franklin S. and Olive B. (Desmarais) Leathers, and was a graduate of the no longer incorporated, Haverhill Trade School, Class of 1963. Bill went on to further his education by earning a Bachelor's degree from Lowell Tech.

A humble, selfless, kind, and compassionate man whose life was defined by hard work, generosity, and love for others. His warm smile and wonderful sense of humor could light up any room, and he had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Bill believed in the value of hard work and was rarely one to sit still, often working two jobs to provide for his family. He was a highly skilled tool and die maker whose precision and craftsmanship contributed to the production of devices used in both the medical and industrial manufacturing fields. He also dedicated 27 years of service to the Haverhill Paper Board, where he earned the respect and friendship of his coworkers through his strong work ethic and unwavering integrity.

While Bill took great pride in his career, his greatest fulfillment came from helping others. He volunteered countless hours at the Haverhill Boys Club, where he patiently mentored young boys in carpentry, teaching not only practical skills but also the importance of perseverance, responsibility, and confidence.

A devoted father, Bill treasured the years he spent coaching Little League, proudly guiding Kristin and Steve and their teammates both on and off the field. He believed that sports were about much more than winning—they were about teamwork, character, and creating lifelong memories.

Music was one of Bill's greatest passions. An exceptional drummer, he shared his talent by teaching others to play, finding joy in watching new musicians discover their own rhythm. He especially loved the timeless sounds of the 1950s and 1960s, music that often accompanied happy moments throughout his life.

Bill was a proud member of the Crescent Yacht Club, where he enjoyed spending time with friends and could often be found on the dance floor. He also found peace in his daily walks at the Haverhill Stadium, where he formed meaningful friendships with many of the people he met along the way.

Never one to miss the day's events, Bill enjoyed watching CNN and local news broadcasts, always staying informed about the world around him. He valued thoughtful conversation and was genuinely interested in the lives and experiences of others.

Bill was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard after serving his country for six years.

Bill's legacy is not measured by material possessions or accolades, but by the countless lives he touched through his kindness, generosity, patience, and unwavering willingness to help. He leaves behind family, friends, former students, teammates, neighbors, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His lessons, laughter, and love will continue to live on in their hearts.

Though he will be deeply missed, those who loved Bill take comfort in knowing that his life was one of purpose, compassion, and quiet strength. His memory will forever be a blessing and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of calling him family, friend, coach, mentor, or teacher.

Bill will be sadly missed by his wife of thirty-seven years, Paula (Parks) Leathers of Haverhill, Massachusetts, cherished son, Steven Leathers and his wife, Tina of Haverhill, adoring daughter, Kristin Provencher and her husband, Michael of Moultonborough, New Hampshire. stepdaughter, Lynne Meehan and her husband James of Hampton, New Hampshire, Kimberly Bailey and her husband, Thomas Spada of Haverhill, treasured grandchildren, Michael, John, Colby, Abbey, and Brooke, several cherished step grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. Bill was predeceased by his first wife, Frances (Egan) Leathers, brother, Al Leathers, and granddaughter, Kasey Leathers.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Calling Hours for William Leathers on Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at the Brookside Chapel & Funeral Home, 116 Main Street, Plaistow, New Hampshire. A Funeral Service for William will start at 12:15 PM, on Thursday July 2, 2026, at the funeral home, followed by interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 890 Hilldale Avenue, Haverhill, Massachusetts.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bill’s name to the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill, 55 Emerson Street, Haverhill, MA 01830, or by visiting Donate - Boys and Girls Club of Greater Haverhill