"My deepest condolences to all of the family, Marion was a well respected lady, always a class act!! Certainly had a great run to age 99. Chip Hawkins"
In loving memory of
Marion L. Willey
September 13, 1924 - February 8, 2024
Marion (Lutz) Willey passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, at age 99 with her granddaughter Rhonda and her son Craig at her side. Her last words were "Thank You and Good Night." She had a long and wonderful life and was loved by all of her extended family.
Marion was born in Endicott, NY on September 13, 1924. She was married to the late Grafton H. Willey III (who passed away on September 17, 2000) for over 54 years. She was a long-time resident of Barrington, RI. Marion was the daughter of F. Leigh and Clara Lutz of Endicott, NY. A 1946 graduate of Syracuse University, she worked in the medical laboratory at RI Hospital after graduation. After bringing up four children she went back to work in her husband's law practice as a paralegal for many years.
Marion is survived by three sons, Grafton H. Willey, IV and his wife Lois A Clement of Portsmouth, RI, Craig L. Willey and his friend Bess Walker of Middletown, RI, Dana B. Willey and his wife Karen Willey of Harwinton, CT, and a daughter Barbara L. Funk and her husband Steven Funk of Kalispell, MT. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren, Rhonda Bergeron and her fiancé Phillip Rondina II of Portsmouth, RI, Richard Clement of Colorado Springs, Co, Seth Willey and his wife, Jessica of Albuquerque, NM, Erin Mariah Willey, of New Orleans, La, Victoria Willey Richnavsky and her husband Rob of Torrington, CT, Daniel Willey and his partner Deborah Goodman of Harwinton, Ct, Jameson Willey, of Harwinton, CT, Kara Funk of Missoula, MT, Kristie Bakken and her husband Jeremy of Billings, MT, and 8 great-grandchildren, Alexa Bergeron, Kailey Bergeron, and Jordan Branco, Eli, Liam, and Colton Willey, Eva Richnavsky and Dax Bakken. Her granddaughter Jenna Willey predeceased her.
Marion participated in many civic activities during her lifetime including being a long-time board member of the RI Philharmonic Symphony and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). She was instrumental in the creation of the Barrington Mental Health Association and served on a number of church, historical and preservation groups on both a town and statewide basis. She was also an avid collector and expert of Royal Doulton figurines.
Funeral arrangements will be private. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to the RI Philharmonic Music School, 667 Waterman Ave, East Providence, RI 02914.
Tributes
"To the family and friends of Marion, We are so sorry for your loss. Marion was a resident of our community for almost 8 years and every day her smile lit up the room. We are honored to have been able to care for her and we cherish the memories made with her. May Marion Rest in Peace while her loved ones find comfort in the warm memories shared. - With condolences, Atria Aquidneck Place"
"Dear Cap and family, I go back many years working for you and the next office over was your Dad's law office. I would see them everyday. I still can picture her getting off the elevator dressed so beautifully and in her high heels. I could choose many words to describe your mother but the first to mind is "classy". Always a lady, always soft spoken, always a smile. My deepest condolences to you. Fondly, your old secretary Patti Cotoia "
"Cap? wishing you and your family peace as you mourn the loss of your loving Mother. May she Rest In Peace."
"To Cap and family, I am so very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. She sounds like a remarkable woman. Sending condolences and prayers."