Obituaries

William R. Wheatly, 78

September 17, 2023

William R. Wheatly, 78, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed attorney, passed away suddenly on September 17, 2023. Born in Texas, he was the son of Dr. William K. and Verdi Wheatly. After completing his education at Penn Manor (class of 63’), he graduated from Randolph Macon College. In 1968 he enlisted in Officer Candidate School and did a tour in Vietnam. After completing his Army career, he graduated from the University of Baltimore Law School and started practicing in 1974 with Hassle, Yost and Sorrentino and continued with that firm and its successor Apple and Yost, until his retirement. For an astounding 34 years, he dedicated himself to the practice of law, offering guidance, advocacy, and support to countless clients in need.

Outside of his professional life, he was an avid golfer, finding solace and camaraderie on the fairways and greens. He was a member of the Conestoga Country Club and the Lancaster Country Club. His skill and love for the sport were a source of joy for him, and he often shared the course with dear friends who appreciated his company as much as his golf game. William also enjoyed playing cards with friends at the Commercial Travelers Association, which he was an active member of. He was a devoted fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Penn State.

William Wheatly will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for the kindness, humor, and love he shared with everyone he knew. He leaves behind his loving wife of 51 years, Gwen, their children, William D. Wheatly husband of Sarah of Richmond VA, Bryan K, Wheatly husband of Alicia of Houston TX; grandchildren William T. Wheatly, and Seth K. Wheatly; and sister Connie Smith wife of Richard of Georgetown TX, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of William’s life will be held on Friday September 29, 2023, at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA. at 11am with a visitation beginning one hour prior at 10am. William will be put to rest at the conclusion of service at Mellinger Mennonite Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his honor to Tunnels to Towers at https://t2t.org/. Please join us as we come together to celebrate the remarkable life of William R. Wheatly, a man who touched our lives and hearts in so many meaningful ways.

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Condolences to the Family

October 01, 2023

Goodbye my friend 🍀
Dennis Ward

September 28, 2023

Dear Gwen,
I am so sorry to have heard of Bill’s passing. He was such a very good friend of my father and I like to think of mine as well in later years. My deepest condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
TheliaJean

September 28, 2023

Bill was always extremely generous and showed great interest in my life and what I was up to, as I spent countless hours at his and Gwen’s home during my high school and college years, hanging out with Billy. He was a great man and will be missed.

PJ Savage

September 26, 2023

Bill was one of my best friends in high school. We had many very good times together. I will always think of him fondly. My condolences to all his family.
Alan Wilkinson

September 26, 2023

Sorry to see Attorney Wheatly passed away
Always had a smile on his face
Prayers to his family
Love, Donna Speece

September 25, 2023

Dear Gwen, Bryan and Billy,
I worked with Bill for over 20 years. No matter how bad my day was going, I could always count on him to make me laugh. Just seeing him brought a smile to my face.
Marianne Sheely

September 24, 2023

I had the pleasure of working for Mr Wheatly when I started at Appel & Yost in 1990. What a wonderful man he was. Such a pleasure to work for. I never saw him without a smile on his face. My prayers and condolences to Gwen and the entire family. May God grant you comfort and peace during this time of sorrow. Joyce Armold

September 23, 2023

Gwen,
I was so sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your husband. We will be in Palm Springs when the services are taking place. Although we cannot be there physically, you will be in my thoughts and prayers, as you have been since I heard of your loss. Take care. Hopefully you will be surrounded by family and friends, who will give you comfort in the days to come. Judy and Steve Iovino

September 21, 2023

I have worked at Goodman & Kenneff for 30+ years and I had the pleasure of seeing Mr. Wheatly often at our office over those years with Tom and Jack. I could see the comraderie between them which was fun to watch whenever he stopped by for a visit or to play cards. I will remember him fondly.
Tina Weaver

September 21, 2023

Jim’s known Bill ever since he moved to Millersville. Janet only via class breakfasts and reunions. We both want to extend our condolences to the family. We thouroghly enjoyed spending time with him when we had the opportunity.
Jim and Janet Lawrence

Visitation: Friday, September 29, 2023; 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
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Services: Friday, September 29, 2023; 11:00 AM; Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory; 3110 Lititz Pike; Lititz, PA 17543
Map and Directions: Get Maps and Directions >