Barrett J. Bilotta

Barrett J. Bilotta of Westford, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026, at the age of 81. He was born on April 11, 1944, in Boston, Massachusetts, and was raised within the city’s vibrant Italian-American community.

Barrett’s life reflected a blend of intellectual curiosity, entrepreneurial vision, and civic commitment. He began his professional journey trained as a machinist and tool-and-die maker, but early on discovered a deeper passion for cinema, television, film, and mass communication. This interest guided him back to academia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religious Studies from Goddard College, followed by a Master of Theological Studies (M.T.S.) from Harvard Divinity School.

Following his graduate studies, Barrett served as a post-graduate teaching fellow at MIT, where his academic career expanded into faculty work at the Divinity School. During this time, he founded a media studies program at MIT focused on mass communications, helping shape interdisciplinary approaches to media and culture.

After completing his formal academic career, Barrett turned his attention to the business world, where he spent more than two decades building and leading successful ventures in communications and media infrastructure. He founded Satellite Television and the American Low-Power Television Network, raising significant capital to develop cable television subscription services for large apartment communities throughout Massachusetts. After growing a substantial subscriber base, he exited these companies as part of a larger industry consolidation.

Barrett later became an early participant in the emerging cellular communications industry. Through participation in FCC spectrum auctions, he secured valuable licenses in key U.S. markets and ultimately sold his interests to a major national cellular carrier as the network expanded.

His entrepreneurial vision also extended to film and media production. Barrett founded the New England Production Center, which led to the development of a major film and video production hub at the former Fort Devens Army Base. This facility became a cornerstone of the New England film industry and helped establish the region as a growing center for media production.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Barrett was a dedicated advocate for America’s veterans, with a particular focus on those who served during the Vietnam War. He raised funds, advised veteran organizations, and worked tirelessly to bring awareness to the challenges faced by returning service members. In recognition of his service, he was inducted into the Blue Angels Association—an honor typically reserved for former Blue Angels pilots and crew—and served on the Board of Directors of the Naval Military Association, Inc.

Above all, Barrett was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was married for over fifty years to his beloved wife, Margaret E. Keller, who survives him. He is also survived by his only son, Barrett C. Bilotta, and his three cherished granddaughters, Allison, Madeline, and Isabelle, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Family and friends are invited to Barrett’s Celebration of Life on Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 4 until 7 PM at the WESTFORD HEALY FUNERAL HOME, 57 N Main Street, Westford. His Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 10 AM at BLESSED TRINITY PARISH - ST. CATHERINE OF ALEXANDRIA CHURCH, 107 N Main Street, Westford. Burial to follow in Pine Grove Cemetery, Westford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barrett’s memory to the New England Center and Home for Veterans, in support of their mission to service those who have served our country.