Sydney (Syd) Willett

Sydney (Syd) Willett, age 85, of Peachtree Corners, Georgia, passed away on April 23, 2025. Syd was born on May 1, 1939, in the village of Wallasey in northwest England, the son of the late William Oliver and Gladys Ellen Willett. He grew up across the Mersey River from Liverpool, England. In October 1961, he married the love of his life, Barbara. In 1975, they immigrated to Montreal, Quebec, Canada, with their two young daughters. For 18 years, they lived in St. Thomas, Ontario, where they formed lifelong friendships. In 1995, Syd’s career brought the family to the United States, where they lived in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Upon retirement, they settled in Roswell, Georgia, to be near their eldest daughter and her family. From a young age, Syd was a gifted artist, with a talent for capturing the beauty of nature through his artwork. In his early twenties, he joined the Merchant Marines and sailed the Mediterranean, often writing love letters to Barbara. After completing his service, he pursued a career in engineering, which became his lifelong profession. Syd was known for his quick wit and unstoppable sense of humor. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, often delighting them with imaginative stories. He had a reputation for being a reliable friend and a constant source of support for those in need. Syd is preceded in death by his loving wife Barbara, his parents William and Gladys Willett and his four siblings: Doreen Thompson, Joyce Kelly, Jean Patterson, and George Willett. He is survived by his loving daughters, Samantha Murray (Kevin) of Peachtree Corners, GA, and Kerry Willett-Vali (Mark) of Oakville, Ontario, Canada; and his beloved grandchildren: Patrick, Emma, Madeline, and Rachel. A funeral service to honor the life of Sydney Willett will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025, in the Chapel at St. Brigid Catholic Church in Johns Creek, Georgia. Reception to follow at The Neely Farm Club House, 6151 Neely Farm Dr., Peachtree Corners. Please visit www.northsidechapel.com to share memories and leave condolences for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Canadian Cancer Society. Flowers may also be sent from Syd’s favorite flower shop, FlowerCraft, Inc, 3667 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Chamblee, GA, 30341, 770-458-7937.

Sydney (Syd) Willett

May 1, 1939 - April 23, 2025