Wilbur (Wil) E. Tobey passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 27, 2026 at Watson Fields in Dover, NH.  Wil was 102 years old.   He was born on May 22, 1923 in Eliot, ME, the son of the late Walter Tobey and Edith (Beetham) Tobey.

Wil served in the Army Airforce, a predecessor to the Air Force, in WWII as a radar technician in the South Pacific.  He worked at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard for many years as an electrical technician as well as the USS Albacore, a submarine now part of the Maritime Museum in Portsmouth, NH.  Wil, aka, Cap’t Slim, enjoyed adventure as exemplified by his love of fishing, often as captain of fishing expeditions in Florida, Australia, New Zealand and in the Bahamas.  An avid skier, Wil skied at Wildcat Mountain with his wife Barbara for many years until he was 80.  Wil was known for his down-Maine dry wit, and was a generous man with his family and his extended family.

Wil is survived by his nephew, Walter Milliken, his wife, Elizabeth McCoy of Dover, and their daughter, Lo McCoy as well as his nephews Alan Perkins, Rodney Perkins and James Perkins and their families.  Wil is also survived by his extended family, Carolee Abbott, Laurel Abbott-Coffey and their families. Wil’s wife, Barbara (Normine) Tobey predeceased him in 2012 after 31 years of marriage.  Wil is predeceased by his sisters Marian Perkins, Eleanor Millikin, and his brother Elwin Tobey.  Wil is also predeceased by his wife’s cousin, Claire (Normine) Abbott, and her husband, Kenneth Abbott.

Graveside services for both Wil and Barbara Tobey will be held on Tuesday, July 21 at 11:00 at Riverside Cemetery,  171 Elm Street, North Reading.

Charles Brown – 71, of Wilmington MA passed away at his home on July 11, 2026. He was the loving husband of Donna Brown, father of Chris Brown and his late daughter Erica Brown. Charles was a loving grandfather of Mia Mastropietro, Harper Manning, and Tyler Brown, and loving brother of Donna Johnson. He was a loving son of Arthur and Mary Brown. Loved by many nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Lynn English High School. He worked many years at Cooling Unlimited in Reading, MA. Charlie knew the way to light up a room with a simple joke, and a huge smile followed along with it. He spent his time raising two beautiful children, and became the best grandfather. Charlie spent many summers with his grandchildren at Pine Acres, where memories were made and stories were told. He enjoyed driving the golf cart and cooking pizza, and swimming in the river. Charles also enjoyed golfing, he participated in countless golf tournaments, with his childhood best friends, making enough memories for a lifetime.

He loved to play his guitar and would often sit in the kitchen and string a couple chords, singing to his family. He loved listening to music, especially Bob Segar. He made his children fall in love with his oldies music style. Charlie will be missed by many, he lived a life full of love and happiness even when times got tough. Charlie Brown isn’t the cartoon character but would never pass up a nice cold Budweiser beer.

Visitation will be held at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow St., North Reading on Friday, July 24 from 4 to7 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to  the charity of one’s choice.

Robert W. Freccero, 86, of North Reading and formerly of the West End of Boston, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

Born in Boston, Massachusetts, on April 10, 1940, Bob was the beloved son of the late Giuseppe and Maria (Bagatti) Freccero. He was raised in Boston and graduated from Boston Trade School. He continued his education at Wentworth Institute and the Northeast Institute of Technology.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Army as an SP5 Combat Engineer from 1958 to 1962, followed by two additional years in the Army Reserve.

Throughout his distinguished career, Bob earned numerous professional licenses and certifications. He was a licensed HVAC mechanic, Master Pipefitter, Master Sprinkler Fitter, Licensed Refrigeration Mechanic, Licensed Oil Burner Technician, and held multiple industry certifications. As a proud member of Local 537, he worked as a Master Pipefitter, Welder, Boiler Technician, and Construction Superintendent. He contributed to the construction of the Prudential Center and several of Boston’s leading hospitals before advancing to the roles of Foreman and Facilities Manager with Leggat McCall and later Clarion Realty.

A resident of North Reading since 1968, Bob was an active member of the community. He belonged to Saint Theresa’s Church and served as a Special Police Officer for the Town of North Reading. He was also a member of the Order of Sons of Italy, Toastmasters of Stoneham, the West Enders (dedicated to preserving the memories of Boston’s historic West End), and the North Shore American Institute of Plant Engineers.

Bob was a generous, selfless man and a natural teacher who freely shared his knowledge with others. He never judged anyone and was known for his enormous heart, unwavering kindness, and dedication to helping others. He was a passionate advocate for people with disabilities, and among Bob’s proudest achievements, personally built and provided multiple long-term homes for special needs individuals. Above all, Bob cherished his family. He loved traveling to Palm Springs, California, which he considered his second home, enjoyed regular trips to the casino, treasured fishing adventures with his friends and grandsons, and never passed up an opportunity to gather everyone for a meal. His greatest joy was spreading happiness and making others smile, laugh and feel important.

Bob was the devoted husband of Patricia H. Freccero and the loving father of Maria Freccero. He was predeceased by his beloved children Robbie, Michael, and Michelle Freccero. He was also predeceased by his siblings, Joe Freccero, Lillian Maraccini, Lawrence Freccero and Katherine Kawa.

He leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, David, Christina, Anthony and his wife Kim, Gabriel and his fiancée Raina Pothitakis, Mia, and Gianna Freccero; his treasured great-grandchildren, Gabriella and Leah; and was deeply devoted to Kenneth Marshall, Fred Parziale, Marietta, Paul, and Kim Maraccini, as well as the Perez, Marshall, Rakers, and Gerardi families. Bob’s love, guidance, and generosity will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading MA, on Friday, July 17, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. at Christ the King–St. Athanasius Church, 300 Haverhill Street, Reading MA. Interment will take place at Puritan Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Peabody.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bob’s memory to The Infinite Learning House, 286 Park Street, Unit 5, North Reading, MA 01864.

www.croswellfuneralhome.com

Robert “Bob” Davidson, 71, of North Reading, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Bob proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps before dedicating many years of service to his community as a firefighter with the Everett Fire Department. Throughout his life, he carried himself with dignity, honor, and respect, values that were reflected in the way he served others and treated everyone he met. After retiring from the fire department, he continued his work as an exterminator (E-Tech). Throughout his life, Bob was driven by a desire to serve, whether answering emergency calls, lending a helping hand to someone in need, or quietly supporting those less fortunate. He had a special place in his heart for those experiencing homelessness and addiction struggles and was always willing to give back to his community.

Bob shared a beautiful life with his beloved longtime partner, Carol DiGiantommaso, whom he lovingly called “his angel.” Their unwavering love, devotion, and companionship brought them both comfort, joy, and countless cherished memories throughout their years together. They stood by each other through life’s many moments, offering one another strength, support, and unconditional love. Their bond was a true testament to the beautiful partnership they shared, and Bob was forever grateful for the special place Carol held in his heart and in his life.

He is survived by his beloved daughter and pride and joy, Marina Davidson, who was the light of his life and whom he loved with all of his heart. Bob was Marina’s greatest supporter, always believing in her, encouraging her dreams, and reminding her of her strength even during life’s most difficult moments. Their bond was built on unconditional love, laughter, and a deep connection that will remain with her forever. He was her best friend and her hero.

He is also survived by his son, Frank Davidson; Paul and Katty DiGiantommaso; Michael and Marco DiGiantommaso and Mia Joy, whom he proudly called his granddaughter; his beloved sister, Deborah Davidson; his former wife, Donna (Sachetta) Davidson; and his cherished best friend, Joe Albano. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Warren and Pauline (White) Davidson and Michael DiGiantommaso.

He also leaves behind many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who will miss his warmth, humor, kindness, and generous spirit.

An avid animal lover, Bob adored his cats and found joy in watching and caring for the wildlife around his home. He had an unmistakable sense of humor that could brighten any room, a generous nature that inspired everyone around him, and a stubborn streak that those who knew him loved just as much. His quick wit, infectious laughter, and enormous heart left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

To his family, Bob was more than a father, partner, Papa, and friend. He was a source of strength, encouragement, and unconditional love. He believed in the people he loved, stood by them through life’s challenges, and showed through his actions what kindness, loyalty, and compassion truly meant. His legacy will live on in the dignity, honor, and respect he carried throughout his life, and in the countless lives he touched through his service, generosity, and the laughter he brought wherever he went.

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that Bob’s love, laughter, and generous spirit will remain with us always. We are all better for having known and loved him and to have been loved by him.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and honor Bob’s life on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading, Massachusetts. A service will follow at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to St. Judes children’s research Hospital, 501 St. Jude PL, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or to the charity of one’s choice.

Bob will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

www.croswellfuneralhome.com

Barbara  M. (Tilley) Webb – 92, of North Reading, passed away at her home on Thursday, July 9, 2026. She was the loving wife of the late Charles W. Webb.

Born in Winchester, MA on June 12, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Aaron and Sarah (Smith) Tilley. Barbara graduated from Reading Memorial High School in 1952.

Barbara was a lifelong resident of North Reading and spent virtually her entire life on Elm Street, where generations of her family made their home. A skilled local builder, her father, Aaron Tilley, built several homes along Elm Street, including the home where he and Sarah lived for the remainder of their lives and the neighboring home where Barbara raised her children and, later, shared nearly four decades with her husband, Charlie. She remained there until her passing. Following high school, Barbara worked for many years as a keypunch operator before joining the Reading Municipal Light Department, where she remained until her retirement. She was also a co-owner of the Andover Spa for 15 years.

After the death of her first husband, Edward Wagner, Sr., Barbara devoted herself to raising her two children while balancing the responsibilities of work and home. Her strength and independence would remain defining qualities throughout her life. A devoted volunteer, Barbara generously gave her time to the North Reading Music Boosters, Melrose-Wakefield Hospital, the Town of North Reading Senior Tax Work-Off Program, and the Masonic HELP Program in Woburn.

Her faith was an important part of her life. Barbara was a longtime member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church in North Reading, where she and Charlie formed many lasting friendships and shared years of fellowship and service. In recent years, she became an active member of the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, where she found another caring church family and continued to enjoy worship, fellowship, and opportunities to serve. She sang in the choir for many years, often accompanying congregational hymns on the piano, and faithfully supported church fairs, fundraisers, and other church activities.

Barbara was especially proud of her Newfoundland heritage. The daughter of parents who came to Massachusetts from Newfoundland, she made several trips there over the years to visit family and remained deeply connected to her roots. She also remained closely connected with her classmates, helping organize Reading Memorial High School reunions for many years and, more recently, enjoying monthly luncheon gatherings with the remaining members of the Class of 1952. Her home was the setting for countless birthday celebrations, bridal and baby showers, holidays, and the family’s cherished annual Christmas open house, creating lasting memories for generations.

Nothing brought Barbara greater joy than spending time with her family. She rarely missed an opportunity to celebrate the milestones of those she loved, faithfully attending concerts, recitals, birthdays, graduations, holidays, and countless other gatherings over the years. She loved sharing those moments with family and friends alike and was always ready with an honest opinion, a trait those who knew and loved her came to cherish. In recent years, Barbara could often be found enjoying a Dunkin’ coffee at Ipswich River Park, where she loved spending time outdoors. True to her independent spirit, she was still driving and enjoying life’s simple pleasures, spending the evening before her passing at the park’s weekly summer barbecue and concert with her daughter and son-in-law. She will be remembered for her generosity, resilience, welcoming spirit, and steadfast devotion to her family.

Family members include her daughter, Diane (Wagner) Greene and her husband John of North Reading; daughter-in-law, Kathy Wagner of Reading; daughter, Patricia (Webb) Meehan and her husband David of Peabody; brother, William Tilley and his wife Fran of Salem, NH; grandchildren, Erika Greene of Danville, NH, Kristen (Greene) Prioleau and her wife Nakia of Methuen, Jaclyn (Greene) Hollingsworth and her husband Adam of Andover, Jennifer Wagner of Atkinson, NH, Kaitlyn Wagner of Methuen, Renee (Meehan) Kellett of Lynnfield, and Derek Wood of Saugus; great-grandchildren, Nola, David, Jessica, Matthew, Robbie, Joseph, Lucas, Alyssa, Ashley, Alison, and Jimmy; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Charles Webb; her son, Edward Wagner, Jr.; her grandson, Aaron Greene; her granddaughter, Christine Wood; her sisters, Edna MacDonald and Mary Peters; and her first husband, Edward Wagner, Sr.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 14, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon Street, Wakefield. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in North Reading.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Wakefield-Lynnfield United Methodist Church, 273 Vernon Street, Wakefield, MA 01880. www.croswellfuneralhome.com