William H Wills

William "Bill" Henry Wills passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Born on August 1, 1943, in Queens, New York, Bill grew up in Wantagh, New York. After serving his country in the United States Air Force, he returned to Wantagh, the place he would call home for the rest of his life. Wantagh became the community where he raised his family and built lifelong friendships. His first job was with Lockheed as an aircraft mechanic on the L1011 Tristar. He made a career with the NYC Transit and retired as a supervisor after 33 years.  Bill dedicated more than five decades to serving his hometown as a volunteer firefighter with the Wantagh Fire Department. Joining the department in 1970, he faithfully served for 55 years. He was elected Lieutenant in 1976, serving through 1978, and then Captain in 1978, serving two years in that role. Even after his leadership positions, Bill remained an active and familiar presence in the department, often driving Engine 5 and volunteering on the ambulance. Bill was preceded in death by his son, William "Billy" Wills; his cherished mother, Mary Keough, affectionately known as "Nanny," whose love shaped generations of the family; his beloved sister, Elizabeth "Betty" Nutt, who passed away in January from breast cancer and his daughter in- law Patricia "Tricia" Wills. Bill is survived by his wife, Carolyn Wills; his children, Michael, Joseph, and Regina; and his grandchildren, Brandon, Emily, Michael John, Stephanie, Parker, Ryan, Joseph, Connor, and Dale. Bill also loved his brother-in-law, John "Johnny" Nutt, whom he considered a brother. He cared deeply for Johnny and Betty's children—John, Robert, and Teresa—and their grandchildren, Davey, Andrew, Taylor, Rachel, Caitlyn, Jillian, and Jordyn, as well as their great-grandchildren, Bea and Lane. He was also deeply loved by his extended family, the Gendels, who affectionately knew him as "Uncle Willy" or "Hen." Lou, Patty, Ryan, Brittney, Ashley (his Goddaughter), Jen, and John Gendels held a special place in Bill’s life. Bill was often seen and heard in the stands at Wantagh High School field, proudly supporting his community. In his final days, he was surrounded by family and friends who shared stories, laughter, and precious moments with him right up until his final day. We will forever cherish that time together, knowing it was truly a gift. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of the two charities Bill supported: Tunnel to Towers or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Those who knew Bill knew exactly where they stood. He had a way with words, always spoke his mind, and never minced words. His honesty, humor, and unforgettable personality will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 

A memorial service will be held in the fall.