William J. Ladley

William J. Ladley, Sr.
Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Friend, Mr. William J. Ladley, Sr., age 93, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 9, 2025. He was the devoted husband of Patricia E. (Dalton) Ladley for 70 years. Born and educated in New York City, Bill and his wife Pat resided over the years in Long Island, NY, Cheshire, CT, Chatham, MA, and Naples, FL.

A proud U.S. Army veteran of the Korean War, Bill served as a weapons instructor before attending New York University. His professional life began with the International Nickel Company and later continued at Kennecott Copper Corporation, where he rose to become Regional Sales Managing Director. In 1979, Bill founded an international marketing group that helped multinational companies bring their products to the North American market. He was a member of numerous trade and service organizations, including Rotary International, the National Executive Club, Wire Association International, Copper Development Association, American Iron and Steel Institute, and the Chamber of Commerce. Bill was a man of quiet strength and profound kindness—someone who embodied what it is to be soft and caring in a world that so often demands the opposite. A selfless, gentle soul likened by those who knew him to The Giving Tree, he left an indelible mark on every person he met, however briefly, through his warmth, humor, and genuine goodness. He had a rare gift for making others feel like the most special person in the world, and because of this, his grandchildren learned the phrase “heart of gold” early in life so they could describe him properly. His knack for hilarious, heartfelt storytelling was one of the most memorable ways he shared his love. He found joy in the simple and beautiful things: tending his gardens, collecting shells and stones, spending countless hours playing with his dog, Tuppins, and his granddog, Holly, feeding chipmunks and birds by hand, and walking along the beaches of Cape Cod and Naples. A lifelong lover of music, art, golf, tennis, and skiing, he shared his passions generously—teaching, encouraging, and always cheering others on. His smiling blue Irish eyes sparkled brightest when spending time with his grandchildren, with whom he shared endless adventures in nature, arts and crafts, and every sport imaginable. Bill was a communicant of St. William’s Church in Naples, FL, and St. Bridget Church inCheshire, CT. 

He is survived by his wife, Pat Ladley; his daughter, Patricia A. Diamond of Cheshire, CT; and his grandchildren, Matthew P. Diamond, Evan D. Diamond, and Meghan M. Diamond. He was predeceased by his son, William J. Ladley, Jr. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of Meriden Health and Rehab and AccentCare Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion.Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Rest in peace, dear Pada.