Town Historian David Hubbard, 93

By Cary Shuman

G. David Hubbard II, one of the most impactful and well-known residents in the town’s history, passed away on July 28, 2026. He was 93 years old.

Mr. Hubbard, who was known warmly as Dave Hubbard, served on numerous boards affecting all aspects of town government and town life. He was a Town Meeting member for 42 years, serving as town moderator for 25 years.

Mr. Hubbard was a chronicler of Winthrop history, and the title of town historian was a perfect match for a man who loved Winthrop and possessed such a comprehensive knowledge of all things Winthrop. He was frequently invited to speak at town events – with his loving wife, Claire, usually by his side – and he enjoyed the many positive interactions he had with residents, who shared his passion for history.

Mr. Hubbard was also a devoted family man and father to six children who clearly took pride in their father’s outstanding contributions to Winthrop and understood the far-reaching magnitude of Mr. Hubbard’s volunteer efforts that helped make Winthrop a better place.

Community leaders and public officials paid tribute to Mr. Hubbard’s life. Many Winthrop residents attended the memorial observances this week at Caggiano Funeral Home and St. John the Evangelist Church.

“Obviously this is a tremendous loss for his family, but also an incredible loss for the town,” said Town Council President Jim Letterie. “Mr. Hubbard served on so many boards over so many years, it’s hard to even describe. He always had Winthrop’s best interests at heart. He was firm in his convictions. He always spoke the truth. He will be deeply missed.”

Well-known Winthrop businessman Al Petrilli, producing branch manager of NewFed Mortgage, said, “When I think of Mr. Hubbard, I just think of the word, ‘class,’ because he always was a classy gentleman, so humble, so smart. I have nothing but good things to say for the legacy he leaves behind.”

“The loss of Dave Gubbard is not only a loss for his family but for the town that he loved – Winthrop,” said State Rep. Jeff Turco. “Mr. Hubbard gave a lifetime of service as Town Meeting Moderator, Town Historian, and his involvement in the Deane Winthrop House. I will always cherish his no-nonsense and direct sharing of views. He was a good man. May he rest in peace.”

State Sen. Lydia Edwards paid tribute to Mr. Hubbard’s efforts as the official historian for Winthrop. “There is a special loss when the historian passes away. Mr. Hubbard loved Winthrop and all its charm. We will do right by his memory and work to learn our history, be proud of our little town, and make sure the next generation loves Winthrop as much as Mr. Hubbard.”

“Dave Hubbard was one of the most influential Winthrop historians that the town ever had,” said Veterans Officer Phil Ronan. “He also was the Town Moderator and did a wonderful job running Town Meetings for many years. He will be sorely missed.”

Winthrop has lost a great man.