Retired Bridgeport Police Detective William Francis Reilly, Jr., aged 54, of Hamden, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 12th, 2023, at Yale New Haven Hospital, surrounded by the loving presence of his family and friends. Billy and Christine Pepe Reilly shared a remarkable love for 39 beautiful years, leaving an everlasting impression on all who witnessed their special bond and eternal love. Billy entered this world on July 15th, 1968, in New Haven, as the cherished son of William F. Reilly, Sr., and the late Concetta Migliozzi Reilly. Billy faithfully served his country as a combat field medic in the US Army. His commitment to service continued as he joined the Bridgeport Police Department, where he devoted 28 years of his life to the pursuit of justice and the safety of his community. Billy’s commitment to his profession was unparalleled, and he held a deep bond with his “Brothers and Sisters in Blue.” Aside from work, Billy was a passionate Red Sox fan and loved trips to Florida and days on the beach. Above all, Billy’s commitment shined brightest as a loving father to his four beautiful children, William, Bria, Jadyn, and Matthew. Attending activities and events involving his children was the highlight of his life. The bond he formed with his children was a testament to his profound love and the legacy of love he leaves behind. Billy is survived by his brothers Joseph Reilly (Debbie), Michael Reilly, and his late sister Elizabeth Reilly Mentillo (Robert), as well as his in-laws Linda and Arthur Baltayan and Patricia Pepe. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Dominic Pepe. Billy is also remembered by his sister-in-laws, Kimberly Pepe, Jennifer Pepe (Michelle), and Nicole Pepe Deluca (Jeffrey). Billy leaves behind many nieces and nephews who adored him, his bonus daughter Ashley, and his loyal dog Ryder, also known as “Rydell” to those who knew him in Bridgeport.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 18th, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at North Haven Funeral Home, located at 36 Washington Avenue, North Haven. Family and friends are invited to gather directly at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, situated at 2819 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, on Friday morning, May 19th, at 10:00, to honor Billy’s legacy. Immediately following the Mass, military honors will be rendered in front of the church. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.
All our love to the Reilly family. Billy was such a special part of our lives. We loved him dearly and will miss him always. Praying for comfort in your time of sorrow.
Christine and Family. I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and the family.
Christine,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart , thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nothing but love and prayers for you and your family. This is tough but try to stay strong 💪.
Christine, so sorry for your family’s loss. I knew you all from the pediatric office you brought your children to. You all have my condolences
Keeping Christine and the kids in my thoughts and prayers. I’m gonna miss you bro. Your laughter, the jokes, the smiles. They don’t make ‘em like you anymore. Solid stand up guy who loved his family with a passion. I’ll never forget our talks and laughs. How proudly you spoke of your children and Christine. You’re a warrior billy. Guard the gates in heaven brother. I’ll see you on the other side.
Christine & family, I’m so sorry to hear of Williams passing. May he rest in peace
Christine & children
My heart is so heavy & broken I am so very sorry for your loss . My thoughts & prayers are with you.
Bill was a great man indeed . 🙏 may the Lord be with all of you now & always 🙏
I met Billy through Paul Festa, my BF, I immediately felt comfort knowing he would always be there for Paul…and Paul did the same…they helped one another…this day is a very sad day for the family and friends of this pillar of a man…so sorry for your loss🙏❤️
My deepest condolences to the Reilly family on the passing of William. Bill was a great cop who I was honored to have worked with during my tenure with the BPD. May God give your family strength during this difficult time. Remember it’s not goodbye but rather until we meet again. RIP brother you were appreciated.
My deepest condolences to Bria and her entire family. Sending love from your Shoreline Sharks player, Kendall. We are so sorry for your loss.
Dear Christine and Family, Lisa and my family we’re devastated when we heard about Billy. He was a Good Man!! I’ll never forget the Hockey Years we all had together, he would make me laugh every time we would see you guys. He will always be remembered in our Hearts and Prayers. Frank Amarone Sr. And Family
Deepest condolences from our family to yours. Our thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. He will remain a guiding light to his family.
The Borsoi family
So sorry to here about Billy’s passing. I pray that the spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ comfort your
family through this time of sorrow. 🙏❤️
Our VCH, Veterans Coffee House meets monthly at the Wallingford and Cheshire Senior Center which not only gives our Vets the chance to socialize but also take part in enjoying a guest speaker which are related to military topics. We were founded in 2017 by Mark Halliday and Robert Boucher. Our Veterans are an exceptional group and our intention is to bring together to socialize, offer assistance and support. We can be contacted at the Wallingford Senior Center.
At this very difficult time, our group would like to honor the loss of William Reilly as a fallen brother. Our military Veterans send out their heartfelt condolences to the Reilly family and friends. As an Army Veteran, he had joined an elite group of honorable men and women and our Country will forever be in his debt.