Donald Richard Willey

Donald R. Willey, 84, a resident of Laurel, Maryland, died Thursday, January 14, 2021, at White Oak Medical Center in Silver Spring, Maryland. Born July 15, 1936, to Joseph Richard and Mary Frances Willey in Takoma Park, Maryland. Donald attended Blair High School. He joined the Air Force and served for 11 years attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. After his service in the Air Force he became a career firefighter at Station 2, Takoma Park, Maryland. He was also self-employed as a handyman and, taught home repairs to struggling high school students in D.C. He could fix anything. Donald loved bluegrass music and his local Washington sports teams, bowling during his time in the military and, pitched for his fire department and family softball teams. He loved attending and coaching his sons in basketball and softball while they were growing up. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s bowling tournaments, twirling competitions, music recitals and, any other activities they were participating throughout their lives.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Diane (Parsly) Willey, 3 children Richard “Rusty” (Tina) Willey, Robert (Toni) Willey and, Raymond “Randy” (Missy), 3 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, 7 step great grandchildren, his half-sister Alicia O’Dell and, many nieces, nephews and friends. Donald is predeceased by his parents and half-brother, Jimmy Willey.
Due to Covid-19 the family hopes to hold a celebration of life at a later time when it is safe to gather. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Takoma Park
Volunteer Fire Department(www.tpvd.org) or, to your local first responder organization.