William P. (Billy) Cronin, 71, of Marlborough passed away after a brief illness. He died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family.

Billy was raised in Ashland and was the oldest of 8 children. Billy's true love was music. He attended Berklee College of Music and was able to make a career for himself in the music industry. A talented composer, player, and teacher, Billy was a well known resident piano player at several establishments in the MetroWest area, including Ken's Steakhouse, Bella Costa Restaurant, Imperial China, and Lavender Restaurant. His music, kindness, and sense of humor will be missed by many.

Billy was pre-deceased by his parents, William J. and Mary E. Cronin, as well as his sisters, Patricia St. Cyr, Judith Cronin, and Janet Cooper, and his dear friend Ann Heitman. He is survived by his sister Kathleen Lienhard and her husband Tom of Barrington, NH, Maureen Cronin of Marlborough, Maryellen Fitzgerald and her husband John of Hopedale, and James Cronin and his wife Liz of Hudson, and many nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held Wed. Oct. 11th from 6:00-8:00 PM in the Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main St. Ashland, MA.  The funeral service will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to American Diabetes Assoc.,  P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA  22116-7023