John W. Towns

John William Towns, 83, of Rutland, and formerly of Worcester and Ashland, died peacefully and gracefully Monday, April 22, 2024 at the UMass-Memorial Medical Center surrounded by family. 

He leaves his wife of 58 years, Phyllis C. (Morley) Towns; five children, Donna McGuirk of Douglas and her partner Joseph Lijoi, Deanna Towns of West Boylston, John W. Towns and his wife Alison of Rutland, Christopher Towns and his wife Roxanne of Rutland, and Patricia E. Towns and her partner Michael Allen of Lake Tahoe, Nev.; ten grandchildren, Kali, Nolan and Chloe Grace Flibbert, John W. Towns III, Thomas and Amanda Towns, Christopher Towns Jr., Camden and Ariana Towns, and Nicole Allen-Towns.

John was predeceased by his brothers, Richard and Robert Towns, and his sisters, Marjorie Towns and Rachel Sims.

John was born in Calais, Maine, son of Charles and Gladys (Gilley) Towns. After high school, John served honorably in the U.S. Air Force including a tour of duty in Iceland.

After his military service, John graduated from Boston University and Suffolk University Law School in Boston.

John maintained a private general law practice in Middlesex and Worcester counties for 54 years.

He lived in Ashland for many years where he was active in St. Cecelia’s Church.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Parent Teachers Organization of his children’s schools.

In 1980, John and his family moved to Worcester, where he was an active parishioner at Blessed Sacrament Church for more than 35 years. 

John lived for his family and his profession. His sole motivation every day was the health, happiness and success of his family.

There will be a calling hour Saturday, April 27, beginning at 9 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester. The funeral Mass will follow in the church at 10 a.m. Burial will be in the Rural Cemetery of Rutland. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to Problem Pregnancy of Worcester Inc., P.O. Box 7422, Worcester, MA 01605-7422.

The Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester, is directing arrangements.