Charles E. ("Charlie") Killam

Charles Everett Killam, 87, of Boxford, MA died at home, on Thursday, June 22, 2023 after a long illness. His loving wife, Beverly, was by his side at the end. Charlie was a lifelong resident of Boxford and deeply committed to both its history and its future.  During his long life of civic engagement, Charlie served as the fire chief, Chair of the School Committee, and member of the select board, as well as a patron and contributor to the town’s Boxford Historic Document Center and faithful member of the Second Congregational Church. He was also a member of the Grange and served in the US Army. 

Charlie was a person who was happiest working at digging in the dirt with one of his machines, baking a pie or making jam or having a cup of coffee at Boxford Community Kitchen. Charlie was renowned throughout the surrounding area for his famous tire sculptures, commemorating holidays throughout the year or just the change of seasons. Charlie’s way was THE way to do or plan any activity, but he was generous with his time and knowledge to teach his grandkids or the many people who worked with and for him through the decades.

Charlie was a big fan of the Patriots and Bruins, and found serenity on the Little Ossipee Lake in Maine, listening to the call of the loons.  

In addition to his wife, Charlie will be missed by his stepchildren Daryl McKay and his wife Julie, Heather Thomas and her husband Dwayne and Robin Beaulieu and her husband Tim, and Charlie’s grandchildren Hunter, Ginny, Toby, Max, Kalista, Abby, Hannah and Fin. He was predeceased by his first wife, Helen. And far beyond that, people around Boxford will miss Charlie’s wit and opinions, both of which he was very willing to share on a moment’s notice.

Charlie’s life will be celebrated at 1PM on Saturday, July 8 at the Second Church of Boxford, with collation to follow.  Graveside services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to the Boxford Historic Document Center to help carry on one of his life’s passions. Donations can be sent to Boxford Historic Document Center, PO Box 122, West Boxford, MA 01885 or www.boxfordhistory.org/donate. 

The Conte - Giamberardino Funeral Home, 14 Pleasant Street, Georgetown has been entrusted with Charlie's care.

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