William "Willy" Wilson

1/29/1964 - 3/27/2025

Niantic - William "Willy" Wilson, 61, of Niantic, passed away peacefully March 27, 2025, after a short but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in New London, Jan. 29, 1964, to the late Robert F. Wilson and Marjorie (Wilson) Aubrey, Willy was a lifelong resident of Niantic, a town he loved and called home. After graduating from East Lyme High School, he founded Southeastern Sweep, a chimney sweeping business that became a fixture in New London County. Over the years, he expanded his work to include tree services, landscaping, and snow removal-always ready with a handshake and a smile, no matter the job.

Willy was the definition of dependable and hardworking. If you needed help-whether it was clearing a fallen tree, plowing a driveway, or just lending an extra set of hands-he was there, no questions asked. Known for his fix-it attitude and stubborn determination, he tackled every challenge head-on, refusing to quit until the job was done right. He had a way of making everyone feel like family, forging friendships in all corners of the community. His unwavering generosity made him a friend to many, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Beyond his hard work, Willy had simple joys that defined him. He could always be counted on to enjoy a cold Corona, an Arby's roast beef sandwich, or a perfectly toasted Corn Toastie. He never missed an episode of Survivor and had a deep appreciation for vintage cars and a roaring campfire.

Willy is survived by his four siblings and their partners, Robert Wilson and Pam Minucci, John and Julie Wilson, and Patrick and Lindalee Wilson, all of Niantic, and Ellen and Brian Kozlowski of Newport Beach, Calif. He is also survived by his nephew, Rew; nieces, Colleen, Fallon, Jenna, Jessica, Jillian, Ireland, Paris, and Shea; and extended family. He is predeceased by his parents, his sister-in-law, Eileen Wilson, and his loyal four-legged companion, Otis.

Willy faced his illness with incredible strength, but his battle was brief, leaving little time to prepare for the many expenses that come with such a loss. In lieu of flowers, we ask for support to The Willy Wilson Memorial Fund on GoFundMe, which has been established to help cover the financial burdens that have built up in his life, especially during this difficult time. Website Address: https://www.gofundme.com/support-the-willy-wilson-memorial-fund

Calling hours will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons East Lyme Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic.

All are welcome to attend services Friday, April 4. Those who wish may gather at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic, at 12:30 p.m. to join the funeral procession to Union Cemetery, East Pattagansett Road, Niantic, for a 1 p.m. graveside service. Immediately following, a celebration of Willy's life will be held at Niantic Bay Yacht Club, 8 Shore Road, Niantic, where friends and family can share stories and raise a beer or a little Crown in his honor.

Please visit www.neilanfuneralhome.com to leave the family an online condolence.