John L. (Jay) Willey's Obituary
John L. (Jay) Willey passed away peacefully at his Gainesville home on March 9, 2018 following an extended illness. He was born in Orlando on September 2, 1954 to Leonard and Carolyn Willey. He grew up in Orlando and Clearwater, Florida. He is a graduate of the University of Florida and Clearwater High School. Mr. Willey was a retired teacher and spent almost his entire career as the beloved music teacher at Archer Elementary School where he had a significant impact on multiple generations. He was a brilliant musician who played professionally in numerous groups, most notably leading the J Willey Blues Band. John was a multi-instrumentalist and composer who constantly expanded his talents and repertoire throughout his life.
Mr. Willey was a collector with an avid interest in classic cars, books and recordings. He was a skilled craftsman and could repair almost anything. He loved to travel, especially to the mountains of North Carolina for hiking and camping. One memorable trip John climbed New Hampshire’s Mount Willey with his father, Leonard and son, Tyson. John was a Life Scout and rose to the position of Junior Assistant Scoutmaster in Boy Scout Troop #456 in Clearwater under Scoutmaster Bill Edson.
Mr. Willey is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard T. and Carolyn G. Willey and his uncle, Richard M. Gilchrist. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Ramirez Willey; son, Tyson Willey (Ashley); sons, Ian Ramirez, Peyton Chancey and Matthew Ramirez; daughter, Sarah Schroeder; five grandchildren; one great grandson; sisters, Lou Hyatt (Robert) and Anne Howes (Frank); brother, Richard Willey (Janet) and aunt, Addie Lou Gilchrist.
John was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. A service of remembrance celebrating Mr. Willey’s life will be held Friday, March 16, 2018, 10:00 a.m. at his church, 3745 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605. Donations in John Willey’s memory may be made to Archer Elementary School PTA, 14533 SW 170th St., Archer, FL 32618.
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