Tribute Wall
Wednesday
17
September
Public Visitation
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Norman Dean Home for Services
16 Righter Avenue
Denville, New Jersey, United States
(973) 627-1880
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Emily Rivera uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
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My Uncle Bill was the coolest and I’ll miss him dearly. ♥️
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Dave (Legend) Palermo posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
I had the pleasure of jamming at Bill's basement studio for the last 2 decades. Bill was a true inspiration. He was a master technologist. He was a brilliant musician and guitarist. I loved laying down bass grooves while he shredded on that guitar. We did that for a thousand hours over the years (at least), and I could've gone a million more. His improvisational skills were awesome. His studio setup was pro-level, which is a reflection on the person he was: full of energy, love and passion for everything he set out to do. He made me a better musician, and he undoubtedly improved the lives of so many people around him. Bill was one-of-a-kind, and his loss is truly heartbreaking. My condolences go out to Laura and all of his family and friends.
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Kyle Riley posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Bill-
I feel like we knew each other for years even though it was just a short time. I think you had that impact on everyone in your life. Rock on Buddy, you will be missed.
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Justin Lippolis posted a condolence
Monday, September 15, 2025
So sad to hear this news. My prayers go out to Billy's family and close friends.
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Jen Leonard posted a condolence
Monday, September 15, 2025
Bill’ was one of those people who made you feel like you had known him since fifth grade. He was a great coworker - always sharp, funny, and would be there and present when someone needed a hand..
Bill was someone you didn’t forget after meeting him - he stuck with you.
Wish I’d known him better, for sure., or got to see him play live.
I hope the happy memories help those who loved him most through these hard days.
Sending Peace to Bill
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The family of William T. Layton uploaded a photo
Monday, September 15, 2025
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Clement Durando uploaded photo(s)
Monday, September 15, 2025
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Rest in peace my friend. You taught me so much about music. We shared some great times and created some great tunes. You will be missed and never forgotten.
Clemmy D.
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Barry OCallahan posted a condolence
Monday, September 15, 2025
Q: What will you never forget about William?
A: This was very sad to hear as when I was just getting started in my career at Cortel ( I was shocked that the smartest guy I knew chose me to be on his team ) He
taught me so much, I'll NEVER forget my first huge install with him at Monroe College in the Bronx to following his band around, it waw The Michael Davis Band which we still listen to and actually played it just last weekend while working in the basement. He was one of the most intelligent people I've ever known. He was missed by all of us when he shocked us all and left our Company for a big Job with Cisco but we all knew how much he deserved it.
God Bless snd rest in peace old friend.
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Thomas Hubert posted a condolence
Sunday, September 14, 2025
I’m so sorry Laura I give you my condolence hang in there Laura
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Jennifer Lepre uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, September 14, 2025
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Jennifer Lepre lit a candle
Sunday, September 14, 2025
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Bill, to know you was to love you. We spent some great times this summer involved in deep conversations. It is evident how deeply loved you were by so many. You were a kind and sweet soul. I will miss you. Rest easy my friend.
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Gregory Daust posted a condolence
Sunday, September 14, 2025
An AWESOME guitar player and friend! he will be missed !
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Daniel Smith posted a condolence
Saturday, September 13, 2025
I remember the day oh probably 25 years ago that Billy moved in across the street from me. We immediately hit it off and became good friends. We both shared a deep love for music and I always admired his mad skills with the axe as I just couldn't do what he could with a guitar. I will always remember Billy yelling across the street when he would see me outside to come over and check out a new device he had purchased for his studio or to listen to a new song he had been working on. I loved him like a brother and always enjoyed his wit and sarcasm. Play that Great Gig in the Sky brother. Until we meet again someday bro keep it real. I love you man and miss you.
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Thaya Nagarajah uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Over 25 years of friendship and working together, I have come to know Bill not just as a valued colleague, but as a truly remarkable friend. In all those years, we have shared so many work-related and our musical experiences. I am still carrying the name "Flash" which you named me after seeing me doing stuff real fast. I am going to really miss you calling me brother, not by my name, whenever we talk. I will always treasure the memories of gathering at your house, making music together in your basement, and celebrating at work parties. Those moments brought so much joy and camaraderie, and they will remain close to my heart always. RIP my BROTHER.
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Tammy Pazel posted a condolence
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Laura I am so sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. Rip Billy .
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Brenda uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Amy Broza lit a candle
Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Kevin Layton posted a condolence
Saturday, September 13, 2025
To Billy your dad and mom you and Michelle were always kind to me
When I needed it the most
Growing up the time we spend with u all made me happy
I was so proud of the things you done in your life having a great mom and dad I think was a big part
I know your in heaven with them both playing fir the lord JESUS CHRIST
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Candace Golba posted a condolence
Saturday, September 13, 2025
We grew up as family, you were the babysitter to all of us Candace Bennett, Michelle, Sandy, Joan charleen . All us girls got stuck will with Billy,Matt, and Kelly watching us as we would listen to his band play. An our parents all playing poker ♥️, as we all grew into adults we still keep a connection. Whether it a yearly call or a couple years CALL we always all found our way back home together.
so give ant mary an uncle billy the biggest hugs, an ant jerry an Uncle charlie with char an kelly great big hugs and ❤️.
God speed Billy .
I am so sure your mom has you in her arms already and your dad is saying lower the music just a little bill. God speed Candace and Glenn Golba ( Bennett)
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Brenda Stopa lit a candle
Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Laura,
I’m so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He was a great guy, always smiling and laughing. Definetely taken far too soon. Sending you love, hugs and prayers to you all.
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Abe T lit a candle
Friday, September 12, 2025
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My condolences to Bill's family. Had a great privilege to work along side Bill and enjoyed his attitude and devotion. God Bless you all.
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Michael Waresk uploaded photo(s)
Friday, September 12, 2025
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Willy T, we had a lot of fun together ! Thanks for all of the great times and the awesome friendship we shared over the last 25 years. God Bless you buddy ! I know you will be dropping me a few signs at the best moments. Jam on Buddy !
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Albert Marrache posted a condolence
Friday, September 12, 2025
Had the privilege of working with Bill for over 15 years. He had a great sense of humor and love of life. Always willing to help, teach, and learn. He loved music and I was always impressed when he performed. Truly a renaissance man - multi-talented, smart, spiritual, and open minded. I know he’s playing his music for the Big Guy Above now. Love you my friend.
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Cheryl Lieberman posted a condolence
Thursday, September 11, 2025
We met Billy through his aunt Mary Ann Finlay and uncle Doug. She spoke about his music before we met him and then we got to hear him play in Key West. Nothing like music to take you to another place.
With love,
Cheryl and Ginny
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Nancy Riedel lit a candle
Thursday, September 11, 2025
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Laura,
I am so sorry you have lost you best friend and love.
You and the family are in my thoughts and prayers
16 RIGHTER AVENUE, DENVILLE, NJ 07834
(973) 627-1880
info@normandean.com
DAVID G. MILNE, MANAGER NJ LIC. NO. 4301
SERVING THE DENVILLE, ROCKAWAY, PARSIPPANY, Mt. Lakes, Boonton,
Morris Plains & SURROUNDING AREAS OF NEW JERSEY SINCE 1957
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