William Morales

Bergenfield - William "Willie" Morales, 97, of Bergenfield, New Jersey passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Willie was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico and lived there with his parents and four siblings until the family moved to New York City in 1945. They settled in the Harlem neighborhood where Willie met his wife, Angela Morales (née Perez), who coincidentally lived in the same building and also moved from Arecibo that year. Their families were acquaintances in Puerto Rico and overjoyed when the two love birds married in 1948. They then started their new life in Washington Heights to raise a family.

When he wasn't working at the local hardware store and graciously helping his neighbors and customers, Willie enjoyed a simple, yet good life. His time was spent with his family, taking evening walks, going to the beach and Coney Island. He was a particularly big fan of Frank Sinatra and the New York Yankees. Many will tell you that it was rare to walk into his home and not hear the sounds of classical and jazz music or a baseball game booming from his radio. He celebrated several birthdays and father's days at games in Yankee Stadium and Coney Island with his family. His later years were spent living in Bergenfield with his daughters and near his granddaughters.

Willie is survived by his beloved wife "Angie" of 76 years; loving sister Evelyn Galen; devoted daughters Betty Morales and Ivette Correa; cherished granddaughters Lizette Lopez, Danielle (Michael) Pichon and Gabrielle Correa; and treasured great grandchildren, Juliana Failde and Logan Pichon, whom lovingly called him "Papi Willie."

If you asked his loved ones, having a conversation with Willie was the highlight of their days. He always had the ability to make people smile and laugh.

Willie's family will gather privately to celebrate his life, but encourages all to hold their loved ones a bit tighter any chance they get.