William Q. "Biff" MacLean, Jr.

On February 20, 2026, William Q. "Biff" Maclean, Jr., former State Senator, businessman, and civic leader, died peacefully at his home in Jupiter, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.

Biff was born on November 4, 1934, to the late Charlotte (Hillman) and William Q. MacLean, Sr. The MacLeans were a hardscrabble family toiling in the Fairhaven fish and lobster industry during the Great Depression, instilling an exceptional work ethic in their two young children.

Biff was a proud son of Fairhaven, shaped by a community that valued loyalty and service above all else. A graduate of Fairhaven High School, he was a standout athlete whose competitive spirit and determination set him apart. Those qualities would come to define not only his athletic achievements, but the way he lived his life.

Biff's remarkable career in public service began in 1958, when at just 22 years old he was elected to the Fairhaven School Committee. Two years later, he was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where his leadership and tenacity propelled him to serve as House Majority Whip and House Majority Leader. In 1980, he was elected to the Massachusetts State Senate, where he chaired numerous committees and worked tirelessly on behalf of the South Coast until his retirement in 1992. His impact on Fairhaven and the greater region is lasting, reflected in the growth and opportunity he helped bring to the communities he loved.

In addition to his distinguished political career, Biff was a respected insurance executive and partner in multiple endeavors, including ownership of eight fishing boats. He built relationships in business the same way he did in public life - with integrity, loyalty, and genuine care for others.

Biff served his community with single minded passion. He was active in numerous civic and social organizations, including the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, the New Bedford Port Society, and the 13 Striper Club. He was a founding supporter of Star Kids and was the force behind the MacLean Children's Fund - a further reflection of his deep commitment to his community.

Though he was a fierce competitor in athletics and in life, his greatest legacy lies in the countless lives he touched. A phone call to Biff was always answered personally, with action taken immediately! Biff's family has been truly humbled by the many personal stories shared since his passing - stories that reflect the breadth of his quiet impact.

He will long be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend - a man who never hesitated to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or share in celebration. His presence was larger than life, his generosity boundless, and his devotion to the Southcoast unwavering.

He is survived by his wife Mary Jane (Moran) MacLean; his children Douglas MacLean, Kim MacLean, and Lauren Fontaine (Chuck); Mary Jane's children Anne Schultz (Greg), Hugh O'Donnell (Colleen), Katy O'Donnell, and Julie Wood (Sunny); his grandchildren Brittany Raimondo (Marc), Dodie and Andre Fontaine, Emma Liarikos, Katia Schultz, Casey, Joseph, and Maggie McNamara, Teddy, Patrick, and Meaghan O'Donnell, and Caroline and Rita Wood; his great-grandchildren Nora and Jacob Knight; his sister Patricia Foster, and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his daughter Linda MacLean; his wife and the mother of his children Martha M. (George) MacLean; and his wife Marjorie E. (McCarthy) MacLean.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 121 Mt. Pleasant St., New Bedford, Monday March 2nd at 11 AM. His burial will be private and visiting hours are respectfully omitted. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the MacLean Children's Fund, ℅ SouthCoast Community Foundation, 350 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740. Arrangements are by the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford.