Westmore Claiborne Willcox

Westmore Claiborne Willcox (Bill) died of a cardiac event at his home on North Topsail Island, North Carolina on May 10, 2022. Bill was the son of the late Ashby Jenkins Willcox and Edward Roane Willcox Jr. He was predeceased by his twin brother, Ned.

Bill graduated from Norfolk Academy in 1975. He earned his BA from the University of the South and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Ohio University. Bill enjoyed a long career in photojournalism. He worked for a variety of news publications in Virginia, Wyoming, Colorado, and North Carolina. Bill captured breathtaking photos of the world around him from the Grand Tetons of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to the beaches of North Carolina.

In addition to being an award-winning photojournalist, Bill was a writer, avid sailor of Hobie cats, marathon runner, fisherman, gardener, skier, and lifelong learner. Nothing brought him more joy than spending time at the beach with his loved ones.

He was a beloved father, husband, brother, uncle, and friend. He leaves behind his wife, Smaranda, his daughter, Alexandra, his son, Mihnea, his sister, Margaret, and numerous cousins and extended family. Bill was a gentle and kind soul with a great sense of humor, and he made an impact on everyone who crossed his path. Of all his accomplishments, he was most proud of being a lifelong member of the National Geographic Society.

The family is planning to hold a celebration of Bill's life at a later date. In lieu of sending flowers, the family suggests making a donation to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in Bill's memory.

The family welcomes all who knew Bill to share their photos and memories on the following site: https://www.mykeeper.com/profile/WestmoreBillWillcox/