Profile photo of William Anthony McMahon

William Anthony McMahon

JanJanuary 29th, 1947 SepSeptember 28th, 2025
Drouin, Victoria
William Anthony McMahon

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith - 2 Timothy 4:7

Obituary

W
illiam (Bill) Anthony McMahon - 29 January 1947 to 28 September 2025

Bill passed comfortably, surrounded by loved ones, late on 28 September 2025.  

The eldest of five children, William Anthony McMahon was born at Bengworden in East Gippsland to teacher Kathleen and farmer William Francis McMahon.

Bill had a respected career in Catholic education as a teacher, principal and administrator - first in Tasmania and then across Gippsland where he raised four sons with wife, Elizabeth. He was known by many for his strong Catholic faith and his unwavering commitment to Catholic education.

Bill made lasting positive impact through his work at the Catholic Education Office in Gippsland - growing and supporting school communities from Orbost to Narre Warren. He was also proud of his efforts to rejuvenate the Hallora Cricket Club, which transformed from a flailing local membership to a thriving club under his careful stewardship. The annual Bill McMahon medal – now in its 13th year – is awarded to team-spirited members. The medal will remain an ongoing legacy of Bill’s work.

Bill remained a community-minded person until the end, serving as a volunteer for St Vincent de Paul and Knights of the Southern Cross until his health began to falter. He loved travelling and was blessed to make many pilgrimages to Medjugorje, Bosnia – most recently in 2019.

As his care needs increased, Bill became a resident of Lyrebird Village Aged Care Home in Drouin. We are very grateful to the whole staff at Lyrebird for their wonderful care of Bill since 2022, and their ongoing support.

We will all miss him dearly. 

Bill's family invites you to share your memories and photos of Bill on this tribute page where you can also leave your condolences.  Memorial details and any further updates will also be shared via this site in due course once arranged. Please consider a small donation to support the work of St Vincent de Paul in Bill’s honour.

Bill’s Resting Place

Bill’s ashes have been peacefully interred at Gulwarra Heights Memorial Park, in the Farm Walk area.

This special place feels just right for him - calm, welcoming, and open to all who wish to visit. There is a bench beside his plaque where you’re warmly invited to sit awhile, have a quiet chat, share a memory, or simply enjoy a moment of stillness, just as Bill so often offered his time, his ear, and his steady guidance to so many of us.

All are welcome to visit Bill.

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Memory wall

Post your condolences or share your Memories.


December 10, 2025
Sorry for you loss guys, Bill was a brilliant, selfless man and a pleasure to be around
JEREMY FOSTER
October 18, 2025
Dear Bill
Dear Bill,
You were a source of strength for my sister Therese D'Orsa in those days you shared in the Warragul Catholic Education
Office. Your unfailing
good cheer, wisdom
and ability to manage
challenging situations
were like gold. My
sympathy to your
family and a big
thankyou for your life
of dedication and
purpose.
Trish Hindmarsh
October 18, 2025
We didn't know Bill for very long, but was a very sincere bloke it was a pleasure to have known bill.
Our condolences to the McMahon family.
Ben & Catherine Feltham
October 16, 2025
Bill was a Hallora icon and his legacy will be forever lasting. He showed us all the true meaning of community and the value of immersing yourself within that community to better yourself and the people around you.
We are all going to miss him and will be forever grateful for the wisdom he shared over the journey, particularly in more recent years in Brett’s time as President of the Hallora Cricket Club.

Our condolences to the McMahon family and those closest to him, we have lost a legend.

Love Brett, Madeleine, Henry and Genevieve ❤️
Brett Williams
October 15, 2025
On behalf of the Noel and Eleanor O'Sullivan Family, I wish to express our sorrow of the passing of Bill. We have fond memories of Bill and family when we visited the Bengworden farm and other times throughout our association with the whole family.
Love to all the McMahons.
From - Marg, Cath, Libby and Michael.
Margaret Bradd (O'Sullivan)
October 14, 2025
Dear Liz, sorry to read that Bill had passed away . My condolences to you and your family.
Heather Henry
October 13, 2025
I will always remember you Bill. Not just as an amazing man with the forever cheery smile, but as a huge part of the family that is the McMahons. A family that soon became close friends.
I wish I could go back in time and take a photo of you sitting on the lounger in the front room, sipping a sherry and still educating us all, may you rest in peace xxx
Megan Krenauer
October 9, 2025
Condolences to Bills family and his McMahon siblings and families.
Hang on to all your good time memories.
Our Chris was one of his many St Mary’s Bairnsdale gr 6 students.
Rest in peace Bill after a life well lived.
Cath McCombe
Cath McCombe
October 8, 2025
I worked with Bill in Education in Gippsland over many years. Bill did an outstanding job, especially in assisting students with special needs and their families. Our professional collegiality became a long term and loyal friendship.
I send my condolences to Bill’s family.
John Hodgson
October 7, 2025
Thinking of you Liz and your boys at this very sad time. I'm sure you must have many great memories of your life together with Bill.
Jeanette Dyason
October 6, 2025
Vale Mr Mac, you made a difference.
Condolences to the McMahon family
Lee-Ann Stevens
October 3, 2025
I am saddened to hear of the death of Bill, who I knew as Mr Mac, my grade 6 teacher at St Mary’s primary school in Bairnsdale. Mr Mac was truly one of a kind and made a big - and lasting - impression on me and many of my grade 6 peers from that time (1979). He was unique in the trust and respect he showed to his young students, expecting the best from us and giving us tangible opportunities to demonstrate that we were deserving of this trust. Whilst I did not remain in contact with Bill, I have thought of him often over the years, and always with great fondness and gratitude. Bill and Liz were also friends to my parents John (dec) and Elaine. On their behalf I would also like to send our families condolences to Liz and to the McMahon family.
Sharon Ariëns
October 3, 2025
Deepest condolences to the McMahon family. Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers, especially James, Claire, Ellie and Maggie. Xx
Bernadette Rigano
October 3, 2025
My sincerest & deepest condolences to the McMahon family. Thinking of you all, especially James, Claire, Ellie & Maggie xx
Patricia Bertacco
October 2, 2025
Thinking of the McMahon family at this sad time. Bill was such a friendly and approachable man when he worked at the Catholic Education Office in Warragul as the Deputy Director.
He continued to enjoy a chat throughout his retirement. Such a caring, beautiful and sincere man. RIP Bill, a life well lived. Xx
Leonie Treller
October 1, 2025
Deepest sympathy to Liz and all the extended McMahon family. The Boyer family have been friends of the McMahon family for over 30 years. We remember Bill as a great bloke, always with a smile and always ready for a chat. Well respected in the community and will be missed. Anne and Dave Boyer and family.
David Boyer
October 1, 2025
Dear Elizabeth, family and loved ones,
Our deepest and sincerest condolences on the passing of Bill. I was very sad to hear of the news.
I would like to share my thoughts and gratitude for working with such an encouraging and gracious principal.
I was a young Prep teacher at St. Vincents Primary School in Morwell East, 1980-1983. Dear Sr Mary Fermio employed me as a Prep teacher there where I started in 1980. Then, Bill became the principal there in 1981.
I loved my job at St Vincents and Bill played a huge part in that. He was always welcoming, encouraging and supportive, in my role as a young Prep teacher. I had only had one year teaching experience when Bill joined us but he never made me feel like I was inexperienced. He always made me feel so valued and appreciated. Those first 4 years at St Vincents were my most memorable and precious teaching years, thanks to Sr Mary Fermio and Bill...my mentors and role-models.
In 1983, Bill and Elizabeth attended our wedding and gifted us a beautiful set of silver coasters. They are even more appreciated and valued now.
I sincerely thank Bill for those 3 wonderful years working with him which cemented my love for teaching. I will never forget him.
God bless you, Bill, and may you so deservedly, rest in peace.
Carolina Manuele
Carolina (Giacobbe) Manuele
October 1, 2025
Vale Bill, A good man and a life well lived. Wishing you well earned eternal rest. sincerest condolences to his family and all who loved him. (Gundars Simsons- from those happy days at Hobart Teachers College in the late 60's)
Gundars Simsons
October 1, 2025
Sending my deepest condolences to the McMahon family in this tough time.

My earliest memories of the Hallora Cricket Club were spent on Bill’s shoulders as a young kid watching the A Grade side most weeks. These are memories I will never forget and will always cherish, as Bill taught me so much about cricket but perhaps more importantly he taught me what it means to be apart of a community and a cricket club. Bill’s passion and enthusiasm about Hallora is the reason the club is where it is today and the current members involved will never forget the impact Bill made in his time at the club.
James Williams
October 1, 2025
Vale ‘little brother’, prayer partner,colleague, valued friend and so much more. Rest in Peace. Thank you for the honour of knowing you. My deepest condolences to you Liz, David, James,Chris, Tim and all your families. His memory will live on in many.
Mary Duncan
October 1, 2025
We were very sad to know of Bill's passing and the news brought up memories of our close relationship between the families (including his cousin Bill now deceased) when Bill, Liz and family lived in Traralgon close to our home. They were fun times. As well as our social get togethers, Bill would drop in from time to time. He was always "on the go" and I was struck by his dedication and caring in assisting people in need in any way he could.
Heartfelt condolences to Liz and family. Love from
Isabelle McMahon and Janina, John and Brendan McMahon
Isabelle McMahon
October 1, 2025
We were sad to hear of Bills passing and want to send our condolence3s to all members of the McMahon family on a life well served.We were able to see Bill recently at Lyrebird Aged care when he was struggling with his health.
Laurie & Mary Pitt
September 30, 2025
Dearest Bill,
You were a truly beautiful man. Your honesty, integrity and love shone so brightly in that magical smile. You made this world wonderful for each and every person you met. A well deserved rest for a man who spent his life in service to others. X
Carolyn Pugh
September 30, 2025
I am very saddened, at the death of my dearest”big” cousin”young”Bill. As a little girl, teenager and young woman, Bill was one of the few males in my life, that I looked up to. I always felt totally valued and respected by him. I listened to him ,he listened to me. He even would ask for my opinion on issues. He was always warmhearted and friendly, even when he struggled with his own issues. Bill could be mischievous, as when he thoroughly enjoyed squirting milk all over his little city cousin, while milking the cow.

As we had our own families, careers and involvement in our local communities, we only saw each other every few years often at family funerals. But Bill was always interested in my life and we still had a warm connection. He completely accepted my second
husband Gordon who immediately took to his warmth and Bill’s beautiful nature. Of course, Gordon did a good repair job on Bill’s car.

My only regret is that there were so many years between our chats.
God Bless you Bill, Rest in Peace. You will always be in our hearts.

Our love and prayers to the beautiful McMahon family.
Cath and Gordon

Photo of Bill at his aunt Loretto’s 70th (my mother) in 1987
Cathryn Kerley
September 30, 2025
My deepest condolences to all the McMahon family.
I first met Billy about 45 years ago, when I was a student teacher at Morwell East. From that time on, he became a giant in my life.
The way he related to students was remarkable and deeply inspired me in my own teaching. Bill was a natural educator, and his ability to connect with others was extraordinary.
In my current role at the Mary MacKillop Spirituality Centre in East Melbourne, our conversations and prayer often turned to Mary MacKillop’s deep love for education as well as his own.

In Term 2 this year, the staff of St Vincent de Paul in Morwell East came to the Centre. Knowing Bill had been the first lay principal of the school, I asked him if he could share a message with them. This is what he wrote:
“I think we need to try hard to touch base with the history and tradition which we can be proud of.
The Josephite Spirit was in the tough spots. The nuns happily came to Morwell East.
So often we need to remember the good things we have done and achieved.
Be proud of the work you are doing.
Be proud of being a teacher.
It is a great thing to do with your life.”
— Bill McMahon

Bill encouraged me throughout my profession, keeping an eye on me and always showing genuine interest in my life. He offered wisdom and support through the ebb and flow of life’s seasons.
When my dad died thirty years ago, Bill came straight to Sale to be by my side. He lifted my son Peter into his arms as though he had known him forever, bringing love and comfort to our whole family.
He was so humble.
I cherished our conversations—we could talk about anything and everything. Bill shared his emotions with honesty and vulnerability.
His influence on me was profound, not only in my work but in my faith. Bill lived his Catholic faith in a down-to-earth and authentic way. He wasn’t a “holier-than-thou” man, but one who trusted deeply in prayer and in Love, keeping his rosary close.
Bill was the Light of Christ in my world.
I have no doubt that Bill is now enjoying his heavenly reward—a reward so richly deserved. I weep tears of gratitude, because I have been so incredibly blessed to have known such a beautiful man.
Anna Stefanetti Barber
September 30, 2025
Love you and and will miss you dearly my Uncle Bill xxx May you rest peacefully.
We will never forget all the memories we share.
We will never forget the coins clinking together in your pockets.
Cinta, Carlo and Teddy
September 30, 2025
Dear Tim, Kate and the McMahon family,

I am so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. Thinking of you all and sending my heartfelt condolences at this sad time.

With sympathy,
Kirsten Denehy
September 30, 2025
To My Uncle,Godfather and Mate,

It is with a heavy heart that we say farewell to you. Thank you for being such a great support and passing on your wisdom and the importance of faith and family values. Rest easy uncle!
Love Kieran, Jamie,Rose and Lola. Xoxo
Kieran McMahon
September 30, 2025
I’m very sorry to hear about Bill’s (Mr Mac’s)passing. My sincerest condolences to family and friends.
Mr Mac was my grade 6 teacher at St Mary’s in Bairnsdale. Every body should have the opportunity to be taught by a true caring understanding educator such as Mr Mac. It was my great good fortune to be in that grade 6 class with him as our teacher. He understood and cared for his students and was one of the biggest influences in my life and in no small part formed me into who I am today. I’m sorry that I rarely saw him after school life but his teachings are never far from my thoughts.
Once again my heart felt condolences to everyone who will miss him in their lives
Shane Bartlett
September 29, 2025
To Elizabeth and family from Kevin & Kerry Morgan.
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Bill.
Love from Kevin & Kerry Morgan
Kevin & Kerry Morgan
September 29, 2025
So sorry to hear the sad news of Bill passing away the other day. He was a special person that changed and made a difference to all our lives. A very dear and loving friend who will always be remembered.
Our sincere thoughts and sympathy to dear Liz, David, James, Tim and Chris and all your families.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time.
Con and Peta Cannamela
Con Cannamela
September 29, 2025
Sincere sympathy to all the McMahons on the passing of Bill. His friendship with us while teaching at St Mary's Bairnsdale was a special time in our lives. Rest in Peace.
Gaye & Peter O'Riley
Gabrielle O'Riley
September 29, 2025
Condolences and all our love to James, Claire, Ellie and Maggie as well as the entire McMahon family. Bill was a warm and engaging man who will be greatly missed.
Beck McMillan
September 29, 2025
So sad to hear the news That Bill had passed away, Bill would always Welcome you with a huge smile and always ask how you were going .He single handly kept Hallora going early days
So glad visited him at the nursing home last couple years , with him instructing us to take him down to the royal for a few quite beers .
Loved a chat in his own
Unique way .condolences to the McMahon family
Rip my freind
Craig Russell
Craig Russell
September 29, 2025
Mr Mac. I can still hear your voracious laugh. Thankyou for being a beacon of inspiration in my early years. One of my faves indeed. RIP
Kerry ORiley
September 29, 2025
I’m so honoured and grateful that I got to meet Bill all those years ago when Brent would frequent your home for a game of back yard cricket or a chat. Bill and Liz always so kind, warm and inviting and being one of very few girls back then, you both always made me feel welcomed.

Such great memories.

Love to you all.

Alissa Mounsey
September 29, 2025
To James, Claire, girls & the extended McMahon family, deepest sympathy to you all on the passing of Bill, may he rest in peace.
Ailish Galvin & David Connolly Ireland
September 29, 2025
Rest peacefully Bill. Special memories of the years working together in Catholic Education. A kind, jovial and much respected man. My thoughts and prayers are with the McMahon family.
HELEN PATERSON
September 29, 2025
Bill was a kind, generous and jovial man. He was one of the best people you could ever meet. He's one of the special ones. They don't make em like Bill anymore. My heartfelt condolences to the McMahon family.
RIP old friend.
Shayne Max Kearney
September 29, 2025
My deepest condolences on the passing of your dad. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you and your family find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Please know I'm thinking of you and am here for whatever you need.
Brendan Doyle
September 29, 2025
A man who in many circumstances was so generous and caring. I was very much appreciative of the kind and family oriented man on 2 occasions in my down time. Liv and himself always put others first and never asked for anything in return. His passion for the initial drive at Hallora CC showed through year after year. And there was never any doubt of his love for his family. Bill I'm very grateful that I met you all those years ago may you Rest in Peace you will be forever part of the Hallora cricket club family
Colin Parnall
September 29, 2025
To the McMahon family, our thoughts are with you and we are saddened by Bill’s passing.
Bill was a key figure in my life as we all grew, bonded and matured together as a big bunch of mates, so often in his presence or under his guidance.
I will fondly remember Bill as someone who had my back in tough times, without question or judgment- shared the joy of good times, and always showed genuine care to me and my family.
Rest peacefully mate, my story was richer for having you in it.
Ryan Flack
September 29, 2025
Our deepest sympathies to Liz and family, sending you all our love. The last time we saw Bill he was kicking a football with Tim outside Tim & Kate’s place in Moonee Ponds on a sunny summer afternoon. Oxo
Sophie & Kevin Moore
September 29, 2025
Deepest sympathy to Liz,David,James,
Chris,Tim and the extended family from Terry and Di Ahern.R.I.P. Bill , our very good friend for over 40 years.
Terry Ahern
September 29, 2025
Condolences to all the McMahons, Bill will be sadly missed by many. We look back with happy memories. Overseas trips where we shared learning and laughter. Bill's kindness and gentlemanly ways was a hallmark of the way he lived his personal and professional life. A strong advocate for Catholic education, he worked tirelessly in his role as Deputy Director of Catholic education. Vale Bill.
Alice and Ray Youlden
September 29, 2025
Bill was truly a great man with enthusiasm and passion he would generously share with everyone he met. His smile was infectious too. His great gift to the world was the way he truly believed in people and you always left a conversation with Bill feeling like you were a better person. His contribution to his community is something his family should be immensely proud of. As I am sure he is proud of all that each of you have given back too.
I am so grateful to have known Bill...he was a wonderful man and I will always have memories of him and a place in my heart.
The world is a better place because of Bill, but just a little sadder today.
So much love and wishes for whole family. Lots of love Dave, Michelle, Poppy & April
Dave Cann
September 29, 2025
Long time memories of Bill McMahon our principal at St Vincent’s Morwell A great support to the parents committee and to our children at school , To his family wife Liz and four sons and their families we offer our deepest sympathy Helen and Robert Dunlop
Helen Dunlop
September 29, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr McMahon. I always thought he was a wonderful man ❤️. My love to the whole family xox
Chrissy Kavanagh
September 29, 2025
A great friend for 43 years. A man of faith with huge dedication to Catholic Education in Gippsland . My condolences to Liz Md all the family. Rest in peace my friend.
Judith Campbell
September 29, 2025
Sincere sympathy to the entire Mc Mahon family on the loss of a true and gentle man! His kindness, support and smile will never be forgotten! Rest in peace Bill xx
Lyn Keating
September 29, 2025
So sorry to hear about Bill.
I was lucky enough to work with Bill through the Catholic Education Office and my job at St Joseph’s.
We then continued our friendship through Hallora Cricket Club , Blues Football Club and Warragul Football Club.
Bill and Liz were good family friends.
Condolences to all family members
Arlene and Richard Bible
Arlene Bible
September 29, 2025
He was simply a good bloke. Nothing but respect and admiration.
Mark Godridge
September 29, 2025
It was a pleasure knowing Bill. Condolences to all the family.
Sally and chris jensen
September 29, 2025
You made a difference Bill to the lives of many people through your faith and good works. A friend since 1968, and brother in law. Condolences to Bill’s family.❤️
May you now rest in peace
John Shaw
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