Lillian Sorrells Willey

Lillian Sorrells Willey, 92, of Milford, passed into heaven surrounded by loving family and friends on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Mrs. Willey was born on April 27, 1928 in Winder, GA to Martha L’Eunice Sturdivant and the late Charlie Sorrells. She was raised by her mother and wonderful step-father, James Kingsmill Sr., who brought her to Milford. Lillian was salutatorian of her 1948 Milford High School Class. During her 37 year career she advanced from cafeteria cashier/secretary to the Administrative Secretary for the District Superintendent. Mrs. Willey was honored by the Delaware State Board of Education and Kiwanis International for her outstanding work. She was a member of the Delaware Professional Secretaries Association, the Women of the Moose Lodge, secretary for the Rebekkah’s Circle, and organizer for numerous MHS Class of 1948 reunions. Mrs. Willey enjoyed traveling, dancing, quilting, sewing, cooking, volunteering at the Milford Senior Center, and spending time with family and friends. She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Roland E. Willey, Jr.; her parents; her brother, Rev. Charles Sorrells; and step-brother, James Kingsmill Jr. Mrs. Willey is survived by her two sons, Christian M. Willey (Barbara), Daniel B. Willey (Lorraine), and Linda Willey-Impagliazzo (Al); grandchildren, Stephanie Duphily (Sean), Carolyn Rochester (Derwin), Andrew Willey (Tiffany), Lindsey I. Arias (Brian), and Casey Impagliazzo (Brian). Lillian is also survived by her great-grandchildren Zachary Sara, Matthew, Memphis, Isabella, Makenna, Jaxon, Sydney, Quinn, Dante, and Ember; along with loving nieces and nephews. Thank you to the caregivers, nurses, and staff at Milford Place who compassionately cared for our beloved mother these last few years. The family will receive visitors on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 1pm in the chapel of Berry-Short Funeral Home, 119 NW Front St., Milford, DE 19963, with a service starting at 2 pm. All those in attendance must wear a mask and adhere to all social distancing and gathering protocols. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lillian’s memory can be made to: Reformation Lutheran Church, 613 Lakeview Avenue, Milford, DE 19963.