The community mourns the loss of William “Bill” Guiducci, a pillar of Mastic-Shirley who was behind many service organizations and efforts to help his neighbors. The former banker, 80, was a member of St. Jude's RC Church for more than a quarter century and was active with the Knights of Columbus, the Rotary Club of the Mastics and Shirley, Kiwanis, and Grace Lutheran Church of Mastic Beach. He is survived by his long-time friend, Peggy, an active partner in all of his charitable activities.
"Bill was always looking out for us," said Jack Monti of the Shrine of St. Jude's Knights Council. "He touched so many lives. We appreciate the love he has given us," said his cousin, Eileen Incremona. "Bill was a born leader. He will be missed." Another friend, Jeanette Sanchez-Collazo, said, "Bill was one of a kind, and his warmth and kindness will never be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to have known him."
Originally from the Bronx, Bill worked for Union Savings, Long Island Commercial, and Empire Banks, serving as a manager and vice president throughout his career and always staying in touch with his community. He was a member of the William Floyd School Board and was famous for his role in St. Jude's highly successful annual golf outing, as well as being one of the top fundraisers for many other local causes. He served as a director of the Community Food Pantry and was part of the Chamber of Commerce of the Mastics & Shirley.
"We honor all the lessons Mr. G. taught us and all the examples of love he gave to the community,” said Dottie Lamboy of Flushing Bank, one of the "Shirley Girls" who worked with Bill in banking over the years. "On Valentine's Day, he would always have a box of chocolate waiting for us."
"Bill was a quiet giant, always behind the scenes making things happen, but never wanting the spotlight to be on him," said former Suffolk Legislator Fred Towle, who worked with Guiducci on many community issues and charitable causes throughout the years. "He had great concern for his community, especially the children."
Guiducci had four children of his own: William, Veronica, Joanne, and Christine. Services will be held February 15 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Roma Funeral Home in Shirley and February 16 at 10 a.m. at St. Jude's Church in Mastic Beach.