William Wrigley

William W. Wrigley III, 82, passed away on December 22, 2025, with family by his side. Born on December 19, 1943, in Philadelphia, Bill spent most of his life as an electrician in the construction industry, proudly working with IBEW Local 98. He believed deeply in hard work and doing things the right way.

More than anything, Bill's life was defined by his love for his late wife Gerry. She was truly the love of his life. His devotion to her never wavered, and anyone who knew him knew that Gerry came first, always. He spoke of her often, missed her deeply, and carried his love for her with him every single day.

Bill took great joy in being a father, and in later years, a grandfather. One of his greatest joys was being "Grandpop" to his beloved grandkids, Jayna and Brody Phillips. When they were young, he read to them, let them climb all over him, and spent hours playing and building Legos. As they got older, that time turned into laughter, inside jokes, and plenty of good-natured goofing around. Through every stage, he was incredibly proud of both of them and never missed a chance to say so. He was a storyteller, a playmate, and a constant source of love.

Bill also had a lifelong love of animals, from his own pets to stray animals, and even the wildlife he encountered in his own yard and in nature. He had a gentle way with them, always ready with a kind hand, a treat, or a moment of attention. 

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Allison and Mark Phillips of Shamong, NJ; son Brian Wrigley of Windsor, CO; grandchildren Jayna and Brody Phillips; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tom and Michele Wrigley of Philadelphia, PA; Rob and Nancy Wrigley of Silver Spring, MD; and Rick and Sandy Wrigley of Southampton, PA, along with many nephews and nieces. All will remember him for his stories, his humor, and his unmistakable presence at family gatherings.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife Geraldine Wrigley.

A private celebration of his life will be held in the new year. As an expression of sympathy, contributions may be sent to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, a charity near and dear to Bill. Please click this link to donate. DONATE TO ST. JUDE'S