Guilford, Maine - William "Bill" Edward Thompson, 81, of Guilford, Maine, passed away on August 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a brave 14-month battle against cholangiocarcinoma. Born on April 11, 1945, in Haverhill, Massachusetts, Bill was the third son of Lawrence Thompson and Phyllis (Thompson) Burdin, and stepson of Elden "Dan" Burdin.

During childhood Bill's family moved to Guilford. Bill attended Guilford schools, where he was a state champion ski jumper. He graduated from Guilford High School in 1963 and Aroostook State Teachers College (UMPI) in 1967. Following college, Bill began teaching at Guilford Middle School and married Sheila Ronco Thompson in 1968. Bill and Sheila welcomed Heidi into the world in 1969, and spent the first few summers of married life traveling to Michigan and Idaho, where Bill earned his master's degree. Bill transitioned to teaching biology and physics at Piscataquis Community High School - a career that spanned more than 50 years. Bill and Sheila welcomed Elisa in 1974, which was also the year they bought their family home on Riverside Terrace.

In addition to teaching at PCHS, Bill dabbled in coaching in his early years; and went on to teach adult education classes, tutor, and spend many hours in a driver's education vehicle. His love of science expanded to technology, and he was integral to the initial rollout of computers in the SAD 4 school system. He researched and was awarded grants for both computer and science equipment for SAD 4, and expanded the physics program to include an AP course for college credit. He was one of three finalists in the Maine State Teacher of the Year competition in 2010. Early in Bill's career, he spent summers working construction. He was then employed summers as director at the Maine Yankee Information Center, and eventually worked on computers in SAD 4. Bill spent many hours working on various construction projects with his cherished friend, Peter Martell. Bill was an active member of the Guilford Board of selectmen for 46 years, serving as the chair for 32 years. He received the Ethel N. Kelley Award from the Maine Municipal Association in 2015 for his dedication to local government. He enjoyed working with the staff of the Guilford Town Office. Bill also volunteered his time serving on the boards of the Piscataquis County Economic Development Council and Penquis CAP. Bill was the 2022 recipient of the Pete Myrick Award, which recognizes those who go above and beyond in donating their time to community service.

Bill had a great passion for UMaine men's ice hockey, and loved the times he spent with family and friends attending games at UMO or huddling around the TV broadcast. He was also known to have a love/hate relationship with the Boston Red Sox depending upon the success of the game/season.

Bill is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 58 years, Sheila; their daughters, Heidi Thompson (Glenn Daigle) and Elisa Thompson; his beloved grandchildren, Payton and Preston Barbro; brothers, Jay (Chris) Thompson, Peter (Mary) Thompson, Philip (Janet) Thompson, Mark (Ada Duffy) Thompson, and Doug (Bobbi-Jo) Burdin; brothers-in-law, Fred (Chris) Ronco and Tom Willey; many nieces and nephews, many extended family members, and dear friends. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has prayed for us, provided meals, and offered encouragement during this difficult time. Many thanks to Peter Martell, Joei Worden, and David Wheaton for their help with household upkeep. Sincere thanks to Northern Light Monson's Lucas Knowlton and staff for always being knowledgeable, friendly faces and facilitating Bill's challenging journey. Heartfelt appreciation to the oncology team at Reddington-Fairview Hospital in Skowhegan - all provided amazing care, empathy, and compassion during Bill's cancer fight. Thanks to Beacon Hospice for providing compassionate end-of-life care.

In keeping with Bill's wishes, there will be no funeral service, only a private memorial service for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Bill's memory to Guilford Memorial Library or Guilford Fire Department. Arrangements are in the care of Lary Funeral Home. Memories and messages of condolences may be expressed at laryfuneralhome.com.