Chapter Eternal: Bill Wiley ’79

It is with great sadness that we share with you Brother Bill Wiley ’79 entered the Chapter Eternal with his passing on May 27, 2025. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.

To view Bill’s full obituary as posted on Dignity Memorial, please keep reading below.

William Craig Wiley (Bill), passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, at the age of 68. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betsy, and their three sons: Robert (Naomi) of San Diego, Scott (Daphne) of San Diego, and Eric (Taylor) of Boston. He also leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Otis, Brooke, and Rowan.

Bill grew up in College Park, Maryland, with his parents, Robert Craig Wiley and Joy Wiley, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by his two sisters: Tricia Lyddane (Tim) of Annapolis and Susan Moore of Virginia.

Growing up in the family-oriented neighborhood of College Park Woods, Bill enjoyed countless childhood adventures among a lively community of kids and remained lifelong friends with his first neighborhood pal, Dave Allen.

Bill earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. While at Maryland, he joined the Gamma Chi Chapter of Sigma Chi, where he forged deep friendships. Bill remained a loyal Terrapins fan throughout his life. After college, he went into business with his close friend and fraternity brother, Paul Wohkittel. Together, they successfully ran a credit reporting firm for many years, known for their strong relationships with staff and customers alike.

Bill and Betsy made their home in Silver Spring, Maryland, for nearly four decades. They were longtime members of Colesville Presbyterian Church and developed lasting friendships through the church. They were also very involved in Robin Hood Swim Club, and their local community. A devoted husband and father, Bill actively supported and coached his sons in a variety of youth sports. With three energetic boys, life was full of games, practices, and activities—Bill loved every moment of it.

Over 15 years ago, Bill read an article about a little-known game called pickleball. Inspired, he measured the driveway, installed a net, and ordered paddles and balls. Soon, family, friends, and neighbors were joining in. The joy he felt from playing with Betsy, friends and family fostered an enthusiasm that extended beyond the driveway. Bill later partnered with Montgomery County’s Parks and Recreation Department to develop local pickleball venues. He taught beginner classes, became a pickleball ambassador, and competed in the Maryland Senior Olympics. When Bill and Betsy moved to Annapolis, they were warmly welcomed by a vibrant pickleball community, where Bill made many new friends through the game he loved.

Bill often said he treasured his lifelong friends and felt deeply blessed by the friendships he made in Annapolis and Heritage Harbour. These friendships, old and new, provided strength and comfort throughout his battle with cancer. His extended family, on both sides, surrounded him with extraordinary love and support that lifted his spirits.

Bill and Betsy recently celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary. They shared a love for travel, the outdoors, and entertaining. Bill took great joy in spending time with family and friends, watching and playing sports, and cooking delicious meals. In his honor, please consider enjoying a fine meal with a good glass of wine—and think of Bill, who would surely be savoring it in the company of those he loved.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Heat It To Beat It at Mercy Medical Center, Hospice of the Chesapeake or Colesville Presbyterian Church.