William “Billy” Bloom, 62, of Newport passed away peacefully at his home on March 5, 2018 under the loving and unwavering care of his sister Dawn after a valiant battle with cancer. Born in Newport on July 30, 1955 to Edward Bloom Sr. and the late Jean (Harkin) Garabedian, Billy grew up in “The Point” section where he developed a great love for his hometown’s history. Billy reveled in the telling of Newport’s memoirs, cultural influences, artisans, tradesmen, and iconic music festivals. Billy possessed a wealth of information and he took great joy in sharing with others.
Always with a kind word of wisdom and recognition, Billy exuded a gracious nature with everyone he crossed paths with. Not only did Billy never have an ill word to speak to anyone, he often corrected those who did.
Billy harbored a love for all things musical, exemplifying the philosophy that music is the universal language that unites all people. Favoring all forms of music but most particularly classic blues. Billy shared his passion and vast knowledge of music and its history through endless audio, visual means as well as conversations with all who would partake.
As a collector of extensive music memorabilia, Billy graciously donated pieces of his treasured collection to community causes for anyone in need while humbly refusing acknowledgement or recognition.
Billy was a master gift giver, often departing from gatherings only to return with an item of importance to bestow upon a friend or someone he just met.
Billy was an integral member of the Newport community. He will be dearly missed for his exuberant spirit, quick wit, loving gentleness, and jubilant greeting of “Hey Now!”
Billy is survived by his father Edward Bloom Sr. and his wife Joan of East Providence, RI; Sisters Deborah Ward of Newport, RI and Dawn Lacomb and her husband Daniel of North Providence, RI; brothers Edward Bloom Jr. of California and Edward Garabedian Jr. of Virginia Beach, VA; as well as his life long friend Robert Herman of Bristol, RI. He also leaves behind a niece several nephews and cousins as well as his canine companion Frankie.
Visiting hours will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Saturday March 10, 2018 at Memorial Funeral Home 375 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 PM on Saturday March 10, 2018 at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840.
In lieu of flowers, please perform a random act of kindness for a loved one or a stranger with joy in your heart and a smile on your face in loving memory of Billy.
