Rev. William F. Mather, who departed this life on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, at the age of 93, surrounded by the love of his family at Kent Regency in Warwick, Rhode Island. He was born on December 5, 1930 in Darien, CT to the late Arthur and Catherine E. (Knorr) Mather.
William was the cherished husband of Marilyn M. (Kowalski) Mather, his beloved companion for 39 years. Together, they forged a union of love, commitment, and shared purpose, creating a home filled with warmth, faith, and devotion.
A graduate of the New England School of Theology in Boston, Massachusetts, Bill earned his bachelor’s degree in theology and furthered his education at Gordon Divinity School. Ordained in 1953, he dedicated his life to the service of others and the ministry of the Advent Christian Church. Throughout his career, he served as the Pastor of Advent Christian Church and later as the associate pastor of the former North Scituate Advent Christian Church. His unwavering commitment to spreading love, compassion, and the teachings of faith touched the lives of many in the community.
In addition to his pastoral vocation, William pursued a compassionate calling in healthcare. A graduate of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island, he earned certification as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant, demonstrating his commitment to providing comfort and care to those in need. For seven years, he worked tirelessly for the Providence Visiting Nurses Hospice Unit, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of patients and their families.
William’s greatest source of pride and joy was found in his role as a father. He leaves behind a legacy through his five children, whom he guided with love, wisdom, and a steadfast moral compass. However, his greatest joy came in the form of his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather. He reveled in the laughter and love shared with the younger generations, leaving them with cherished memories and a lasting sense of family bonds.
Besides his wife Marilyn Mather, he is survived by five children: Kimberlie Mather of Newton, NH, Karen Landis of Barrington, RI, Nancy Paquin of Dover, NH, Stepanie Picard of Foster, RI and David Mather of Canterbury, NH; six grandchildren: Mark, Emily, Julianne, Sarah, Ben and Rose; three great-grandchildren Aida, Mason and Ayden; and his sister Janet Martel of Clemons, NC. He was the uncle of Robert Kowalski and several nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Carol Bedient and Robert Mather.
A funeral service will take place at Rockland Community Church, 212 Rockland Road, Scituate, RI 02857 on Saturday, January 6 at 10:00 a.m. Burial to follow in Plainland Cemetery, Coventry, RI.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to Beacon Hospice, 1 Catamore Blvd, East Providence, RI 02914 or to Rockland Community Church. Remembrances may be shared at carpenterjenks.com.
