It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Catherine Virginia Willey, known to many people as simply "Kay." Her quiet passing at home Monday, July 20, 2026, leaves a void in the hearts of her family and many friends.

Kay was born Aug. 25, 1938, to Miles and Sarah Mills on a farm in Slaughter Neck near Milford.

She left the farm life and began her life of 59 years with the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Willey, who preceded her in 2012.

She is survived by her children, Debra Anderson (Carl) and Stephen Willey (Dawn); daughter-in-law, Kathy Willey; grandchildren, Laura Brittingham, Paige Lee (Scott) and Trenton Willey (Katie); great-grandchildren, Sydney Montgomery, Sadie Brittingham, Ticen Willey, Tobin Willey and Harper Lee; her brother-in-law, Charles Macklin; sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Mills; many loving nieces and nephews; and dearest friends, Sandy Pfeiffle, Marie Johnson, Carmean Sockriter, Kelly Pettyjohn, Maryann Warrington and Jack Bushey.

In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her son, Robert J. "Bobby" Willey; grandson, Chris Willey; in-laws, Geneva and Alton Willey; siblings, Marian Geise (Ellis), Joyce Macklin, Winona Walsh (Jim), Bennett Mills (Claire), Gilbert Mills (Dot), Howard Mills and Everett Mills; and, her beloved yorkies, Fergie and Di, her constant loving companions.

Kay had an enormous amount of energy that served her well in life. On June 2, 1972, she and her husband Bob founded their business, Bob Willey and Sons Inc. The business was started with one service truck and determination for success that continued until her passing. Working alongside her family, she was able to master the art of being the ultimate organizer. Those skills brought a finance management style and people skills that allowed the business to be the success it is today. Every member of the family worked tirelessly in some capacity to make a contribution. Her skills to “Never Say Never” served her well. She will always be remembered as kind and considerate to her customers, many of whom are still with the business 54 years later. Her radiant, contagious smile brought joy to the staff. Her willingness to work harder than her employees led to a great respect for her leadership style.

It was also this dynamic, contagious, enthusiastic energy that she brought to her beloved Milton community. When her children were in elementary school, she never hesitated to work at fundraisers or chair a fundraiser, The May Fair, or make sure she was the parent on the field trip.

This unbridled energy continued throughout her life with all the organizations she was in: The Eastern Star, Women’s Club of Milton, American Legion, Odd Fellows Rebekahs, Milton CHEER Center, Kay’s Card Club, Milton Historical Society, Milton Yoga Ladies and Milton Bears Group.

Kay truly loved her 60-year love affair with Milton Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary. She was so proud to be part of this group of ladies. Each year, she was the ultimate hostess for the annual Christmas party and the spring pool parties. She was a beloved friend to the firemen and ladies. She so enjoyed serving dinners, crab feasts and bingo night. She was always the top salesperson for the many fundraisers the ladies would have. Her heart was that of a public servant.

Her fundraising skills were well used at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, which for years she helped to keep the doors open in the very slack times. She served and chaired chicken and dumpling dinners, rolled dumplings, and sold Christmas cards – whatever it took to make sure the lights stayed on. She also served as vestry president, Sunday school teacher and choir member. With many hats to be worn, she never hesitated to step up to the plate.

Along with her sisters Joyce and Marian and their husbands, they worked hard to start the Lincoln Cornerstone Church on N. Union Church Road. It now serves many with its nondenominational services every Sunday.

Even when she was in her 60s, the adventures continued. After buying a cabin in the Poconos, she learned to ski. While sometimes a little wild with absolutely no lessons, she walked away with no injuries, only a few bruises.

Kay loved the adventures through her children. Their interests became her interests. From Bobby’s large boat and fishing excursions, to Debbie’s horse showing and Stephen’s race car life, it was fulfilling, with countless exciting moments. Watching Chris box and Trenton race cars, there was never a dull moment. Attending the Delaware State Fair to watch her children and grandchildren compete in horse showing, and goat, cow, pig and sheep showing brought great joy.

Then the camping, from tent camping at Broadkill Beach and Chincoteague to a large motor home filled with countless friends. The joy and laughter never ceased.

Then came the travelling, from her late 60s into her 70s. Trips to Paris and Hawaii with Debbie, cruising with her dear friend Sue Raley, and many trips with her dear friend Carol Thomas and Donna Zeits, taking her to Egypt, Peru, Costa Rica, England, Holland, Italy and many river cruises.

It was her home oasis that brought her the most comfort. Her beautifully decorated home with the flair of an interior designer. The Christmas decorations always impeccably placed for all to enjoy. The Thanksgiving dinners with the table set for any fine dining room. It was the summer parties that she and Bob enjoyed the most, barbecuing at the pool, and enjoying family and friends.

Kay’s life was filled with hard work, determination, and faith. Faith that through all the trials and tribulations, God held her hand and guided her to his perfect life. One would say, “Oh, What a Beautiful Life."

Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m., Saturday, July 25, at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton, with the service beginning at 2 p.m. Interment is at Odd Fellows Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Milton Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, 116 Front St., Milton, DE 19968; St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, 307 Federal St., Milton, DE 19968; or Lincoln Cornerstone Church, 10622 N. Union Church Road, Lincoln, DE 19960.

Arrangements in the care of Short Funeral Services in Milton.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at shortfuneralservicesandcremation.com.