William Guy Stokes (né Szoke) of Amherst, NH died unexpectedly on April 1, 2020 at the age of 72.

Bill was born on December 31, 1947, to James and Winola Stokes. He was raised in Fairfield, CT and was a graduate of Andrew Warde High school and the University of Connecticut.

Bill is survived by his wife of 34 years, Peggy (Broderick) Stokes and two sons: Conor Stokes, his wife Mel and their daughter Maddie, of Manchester, NH and Adam Stokes of Brooklyn, NY.

Other survivors include his siblings Judith Stokes, Dick Stokes, his wife Sandi and their daughter Leah, all of McMinnville, OR and Jayne Stokes and her wife Carolyn Kibbe of Cambridge, NY. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Karen Stokes of Spartanburg, SC and nieces Suzanne and Sarah. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Jack Stokes.

In-laws from the Broderick family include his mother-in-law Barbara of Peterborough, NH, two brothers-in-law and their spouses, three sisters-in-law and their spouses, four nieces and four nephews, all of whom have fond memories of his spontaneous and outrageous commentary on life around us.

Bill lived the life of an artist. After forays into real estate and building, Bill settled into life as a finish carpenter and cabinetmaker. As a genuine craftsman, he had an eye for good design, an appreciation of fine tools and an understanding of the properties of the wood that went into each project. Perhaps that was because he had “aced dendrology” at UCONN. His talents were recognized through publication in Fine Homebuilding Magazine. His life’s work lives on in many homes and businesses throughout New England and as far west as Southern California and Alaska.

People often referred to him as a character or a renaissance man. In addition to woodworking and construction, Bill was often sought out as a reference for his expertise in cooking, gardening, the natural world, health issues, history and current events. He is known to have begun more than one long friendship by asking “what the hell do you think you’re doing?”. That was his version of mentorship and he felt he could show each person a better way to get the job done.

Numerous health issues plagued his life, beginning with a heart attack at age 37. He endured multiple major surgeries and responded to each disease as a challenge, diving into and researching details to add to his knowledge bank.

Post Covid-19, the family intends to host a gathering in Bill’s honor, an event that will certainly include finishing the last of his good red wine.

Bill was a voracious reader who always had a book recommendation just for you. Gifts in his honor can be directed to the Wadleigh Memorial Library (Milford, NH), the Amherst NH Public Library or your local library. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Heald Funeral Home, 63 Elm Street, Milford. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please go to www.smith-heald.com.