John "Wain" Willey

1945 - 2025

John "Wain" Willey

Thetford, VT - Thetford, VT - John W. "Wain" Willey, 80, died Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in White River Junction, VT.

Wain was born on November 27, 1945, in New York, NY, a son of Chauncey and Lilla (Safford) Willey. He grew up in Thetford and graduated from Thetford Academy in 1963 before continuing his education at the University of Vermont. After earning his degree, Wain joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to UVM to complete a master's degree in social work.

After college, Wain worked for IBM in Essex and made his home in Stowe, VT. He later worked as a social worker for the State of Vermont and eventually shifted career paths when he accepted a position with Bombardier in Barre. In 2003, he returned to Thetford, where he made his home from then on. He worked at King Arthur Baking Company until his retirement in 2018.

Wain loved golf and softball; some of his happiest times were on the course or the field. He played in countless bowling leagues throughout his life, and also enjoyed cutting wood for his wood stove, a pastime that brought him both satisfaction and peace. In his later years, he found joy in word games, crossword puzzles, and bird watching. An avid New York Yankees fan; he rarely missed an opportunity to follow his team. A devoted father and grandfather, Wain enjoyed teaching them to cut wood, use a snowblower, and be self-sufficient.

He is survived by two children, David Willey of Charlotte, NC, and Kristin Willey of Thetford; two grandchildren, Dominic and Nevaeh; and three sisters, Meredith Kendall (Michael) of Strafford, Lilla Barrett (Ted) of Woburn, MA, and Peggy Willey (John) of Fairlee, VT, as well as numerous loved nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, especially nurses Angela and Elizabeth, for their kindness and care. Also, a tremendous thank you for frequent visits by VFW members, Norwich Cadets, and friends. These visits really helped to boost his spirits.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the VA Medical Center Voluntary Service General Purpose Fund, 215 North Main Street, White River Junction, VT 05009.

A private memorial service will be held in the spring. Knight Funeral Home in White River Junction has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com