Lindsay was a native of Long Island, having lived in Glen Cove as a child.

This career began through an apprenticeship with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), Local 25.

He spent many years as a construction electrician and eventually became involved in the operation and management of the union.

Lindsay and his wife Patricia resided in Holbrook, New York, and have three children; Kathleen, Denise, and William.

His legacy lived on in Suffolk County for six years with his son William J. Lindsay III representing the people of the 8th district at the legislature until losing his third re-election bid in 2019.