Gerald Willey, Founder of Willey Knives, Passes Away
The American Knife & Tool Institute extends our sincere sympathies to the family of Gerald Willey.
W. Gerald Willey of Greenwood passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family, who he deeply loved and who loved him. Gerald was born in Milford to the late Walter James and Lelia Willey.
Gerald served his country proudly in the U.S Navy during the Vietnam War. He served as a Navy cook, which he thoroughly loved, and carried that love for cooking with him for the rest of his life. After his discharge, he worked as a civilian as a cook and diet tech at Dover Air Force Base Hospital.
In 1970, Gerald started Willey Knives, Greenwood, Delaware, which is now the largest cutlery store in Delaware. It is a family endeavor and will continue to be operated by daughter Geri and son Matthew, offering a large variety of knife brands.
In his younger days, Gerald loved to shoot pool and shoot guns. He enjoyed strolling around the beach and enjoyed packing up the family every Saturday night to walk the boardwalk. He loved to tell stories, especially about his days in the Navy. Above all, he loved his family and his church, Church of God of Prophecy in Seaford. His family was always his priority. The customers at the shop were like his second family, and he loved each and every one of them; and his skills and selection were always sought out. He was a staple for years in the surrounding areas for local restaurants providing sharpening services for all their cutlery. Gerald genuinely loved working in the shop and making knives. He was always well loved and respected by all who knew him, and he will be forever missed.
In addition to his parents, Gerald is preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Willey.
He is survived by his daughter, Geri Elliott; son, Matthew (Stefanie) Willey; grandchildren, Gracie Elliott, Faith Elliott, Bryce Willey, Rachael (Ty) Short, Howie (Paris) Hammond and Megean Sluter; brother, Steve (Brenda) Willey; and extended family.
The Willey Family encourages the knife industry to make donations in memory of Gerald to the American Knife & Tool Institute. Donations can be made online here or by mailing a check to AKTI, 22 Vista View Ln, Cody, WY 82414. Memorial contributions will be acknowledged to the family.