Willye Frances Young

Willye Frances Young, a beloved mother, grandmother, and steadfast friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 97 on Sunday, February 16, 2025, in Salisbury, MD. Born on December 2, 1927, in Craddockville, VA, Willye lived a remarkable life full of love, faith, and community spirit. She was a daughter of the late Francis and Katie (Killmon) Begoin. Willye dedicated herself to her family and her church, Bethany Lutheran Church, where she found joy and purpose. As a devoted homemaker, she nurtured her four children- Barbara "Bobbie" Nichols (Bill) of Delmar, DE, Helen Kennedy (Jim) of Easton, MD, Dianne Maloney of Delmar, MD, and Gary Young (Maggie) of Delmar, MD. She is also survived by nine beloved grandchildren, seventeen great grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Her legacy is one of kindness and strength, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing her. In addition to her parents, Willye was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Alvin Young; a sister, Katherine Belote; and a son-in-law, Brian Maloney. Willye's husband Paul, and the family they built together, were the loves of her life. She enjoyed playing cards and other games and spent many happy hours in that pursuit, teaching her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren how to play pinochle and dominos. Willye was an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church for many years, as a Sunday school teacher and a long-time member of the "Apple Dumpling Gang." A lover of nature, Willye cherished the beauty of the beach, found peace in the presence of lighthouses, and delighted in watching birds. Her gentle spirit touched countless lives, and she will be remembered for her warm smile and comforting presence. For many years, Willye also devoted hours of time as a volunteer at the Holly Center, and at the Lutheran Mission Center in Cambridge, MD. Funeral services will be held to celebrate Willye's life on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 11:00 am at Bethany Lutheran Church in Salisbury, with a visitation beginning that same day at 10:00 am. Friends and family are invited to gather the day prior, Monday, February 24, 2025, for a visitation at Short Funeral Home from 5:00 to 7:00. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to Bethany Lutheran Church, 817 Camden Ave, Salisbury, MD 21801. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.

Willye Frances Young

December 2, 1927 - February 16, 2025