William C. Barrett

WILLIAM C. BARRETT, 88, affectionately known as Mr. B. or just “B.” passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Serra Manor in Weirton, WV, surrounded by love and gratitude for a life well lived. Born on November 2, 1936, in Steubenville, Ohio, Bill was the son of Edith McCarthy Barrett Custer and Charles A. Barrett. He graduated from Holy Name Grade School and Steubenville Catholic Central High School in 1954. A lifelong learner, he earned his Bachelor’s Degree from the College of Steubenville and a Master’s Degree from West Virginia University. Bill began his teaching career at Weirton Madonna High School in 1962, where he dedicated an astounding 53 years to teaching social studies. He touched the lives of countless students, alumni, and fellow educators through his passion for learning and his unwavering belief in the potential of every individual. Mr. B. was more than an educator. As Athletic Director for 23 years and boys’ varsity baseball coach for seven years, he championed sportsmanship and personal growth both on and off the field. He also served as the school’s guidance counselor, offering wisdom, kindness, and encouragement to generations of students. Beyond the classroom, B was a man of faith and community. A member and reader at St. Peter Catholic Church in Steubenville, his devotion to service was evident in all aspects of his life. Bill also spent his college years working at the YMCA and was a longtime member of the Steubenville Umpires’ Association, umpiring baseball games from Little League to high school. He was a talented table tennis player, earning numerous trophies in tournaments. Throughout his life, Mr. B was honored for his dedication to his community. He received the Bishop’s Cross from the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese in 2009 and was inducted into the Weirton Madonna High School Hall of Fame in 2012. Mr. Barrett’s impact on the Weirton Madonna High School community and beyond is immeasurable. His legacy of dedication, kindness, and excellence will live on in the countless lives he touched. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, James Barrett. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Jeanne Barrett; stepchildren, Nancy (Ross) Basile of Lancaster, PA, and Louis (Krista) Martin of Clinton, PA; step-grandchildren, Michael and Jane Basile; nieces, Beth (David) Anderson, Kathy Barrett, and Lora (Mike) Underwood, all of Weirton, WV; nephew, Mike (Marie) Barrett of Keene, NH; great-nieces Amanda, Jennifer, Linsey, Emma, Eileen; and many great-great nieces and nephews. Visitation was held on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, Weirton. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Peter Catholic Church in Steubenville, Ohio, on Thursday, January 2, 2025, with burial following at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Steubenville. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Weirton Madonna High School or St. Jude’s Research Hospital, reflecting Bill’s commitment to education and compassion.