William Henry Annis, a Duxbury legend, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2022, at Pond Home in Wrentham at the age of 96. A man of many accomplishments and cherished memories, Bill’s life was a testament to his deep-rooted values of family, community, and service.
### Childhood in Rural Maine
Born in 1928 on his family’s farm in Rockport, Maine, Bill was the fifth of six children to Cecil and Zilpha Annis. Growing up during the Great Depression, Bill learned the value of hard work early on, contributing to the family farm by tending to livestock, planting crops, and supporting his family when his older brother Walter left to serve in World War II.
### Pursuit of Education and Career
Despite the challenges of his upbringing, Bill understood the importance of education and left Rockport to attend the University of Maine. After being drafted in 1952, Bill served in various military roles, eventually becoming a First Lieutenant and ending his service at Fort Benning, Georgia. Following his military career, Bill embarked on a teaching journey that led him to Conway, New Hampshire, where he met his beloved wife, Elizabeth, known as Sis.
### Legacy of Service and Friendship
Throughout his life, Bill’s dedication to education and community service shone brightly. From teaching in New Hampshire to joining the UNH faculty as a professor of agricultural education, Bill touched the lives of many. His passion for skiing, love of travel, and commitment to lifelong learning endeared him to all who knew him.
### Remembering a Remarkable Life
Bill’s legacy lives on through his family, including his sons Scott, Jeffrey, and Gregg, and his grandchildren, who will always treasure the stories and memories he shared. A memorial service in honor of Bill will be held on December 21 at St. John’s Masonic Lodge in Portsmouth, NH, with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Dr. William Annis Graduate Scholarship Fund at the UNH Foundation or Pond Home in Wrentham, MA, to honor Bill’s memory and continue his legacy of service and dedication to education. Join us in celebrating the life of William Henry Annis, a man whose impact will be felt for generations to come.