William E. Waterman

William E. Waterman, age 92, passed away on Monday, July 8, 2024, at North Hill in Needham, Massachusetts. Born in Paris, Texas on August 31, 1931, he was the son of the late George and Clarabelle (Martin) Waterman. Bill was raised in Paris, where he graduated from Paris High School with the Class of 1948. He continued his education at the University of Texas, enrolling in the premed program. Following his graduation, Bill was accepted into Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, earning his Doctorate in Medicine with the Class of 1955. He took his first position with the Veterans Administration Hospital in Dallas.

With medical school behind him, Bill was drafted into the United States Navy, serving out his time in San Diego, California as a Navy Doctor. Bill then traveled across the country to further his studies at the Naval Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. His next move was north, settling in the City of Boston, and completing his residency at Boston University Medical Center. While at home in Paris for a Christmas party, Bill would reconnect with his high school prom date, Jeannette Simmons. 

Bill married Jeannette on April 23, 1966, at the Unitarian Church in Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts. The couple made their home together in Wellesley, and Bill founded the first Psychological Clinic in Massachusetts, choosing to set up in Lowell. Two years later, he and Jeannette settled in South Natick and Bill was asked to join the staff at Newton Wellesley Hospital, forming a Psychological Clinic. Once the clinic was established and Bill had the right people in place, he stepped into private practice, helping his patients for fifty years as William Waterman, MD. While Bill was officially in private practice, he was never more than a phone call away for any of his colleagues, answering questions or stepping into various roles that needed to be filled. For all of his efforts and kindness displayed throughout his career, Bill received countless awards from the mental health community. More recently in 2012, Bill and Jeannette made their home in Walpole, Massachusetts, finding friendship in the community of New Pond Village.

Throughout his life, Bill loved being outdoors, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural world. He was a long-standing member of the Appalachian Mountain Club, looking forward to exploring new trails whenever he could. Hiking wasn't the only key to the outdoors, as Bill was a cyclist and enjoyed tranquil time in his canoe on the Charles River. 

Bill enjoyed some of the finer things in life, whether a good meal or a vacation getaway. As a member of the chef organization, Les Amis D'Escoffier, Bill looked forward to formal meals with his friends, all dressed in tuxedos, enjoying multiple courses and lively conversation. Bill loved the Cape life, escaping to his home in the New Seabury neighborhood of Mashpee where he had a home for 25 years—breathing in the salt air and hiking the beautiful beaches. Bill was a New Seabury Country Club member in Mashpee and also at the Hyannis Yacht Club. Although he was not an alumna, Bill was a member of the Wellesley College Club, having been invited to join as an honorary member because of his positive impact on the youth and faculty at the school.

Beloved husband of Jeannette S. (Simmons) Waterman. Loving father of Mark H. Davis and his wife, Mindy, of Austin, Texas and Jersey City, New Jersey. Cherished grandfather of Russell B. Davis of Jersey City, New Jersey and Andrew (AJ) Davis of Irvine, California. Brother of the late Maynelle Mason, Jane Mazy, and George Waterman. Also survived by his many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At the request of Bill's family, all immediate funeral services will be private.

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.