Willie James Gulley

Willie James Gulley Sr., age 80, entered eternal rest on March 23, 2026, at Yale New Haven Hospital. He was born on August 24, 1945, in Selma, Alabama, to the late Philip and I.V. (Coleman) Gulley. Willie was the youngest of four children. At an early age, Willie relocated with his family from Alabama to Connecticut, where he was raised and educated. He graduated from James Hillhouse High School, laying the foundation for a life rooted in hard work, family, and community.

Willie’s love story with his beloved wife, Willie Gordell (Williams), began in unforgettable fashion. The two met at a dance, where Willie confidently stepped in, excusing her walking companion home so he could properly introduce himself. That bold moment blossomed into a lifelong partnership. Willie and Gordell were united in marriage in 1965 and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. From this union, they were blessed with four sons: Willie (Rhonda) of Charlotte, NC; Hagie of Springfield, MA; Maurice of West Haven, CT; and Andre (Nicole) of Hamden, CT. Beyond their biological children, Willie and Gordell opened their hearts and home to many others, lovingly raising Cheryl, Lamont, Lakeisha (Shawn), Barry, Cherelle, Jacob, Chaz, Curtis, and Mario as their own.

Willie was a dedicated and skilled roofer who worked for Primer Roofing for over 30 years. Through his craft, he not only built roofs but also provided stability and security for his family, embodying the true meaning of hard work and perseverance. Known affectionately as “Sonny,” Willie was a man of great warmth and spirit. He was blessed with a beautiful voice and a deep love for gospel music. Along with his childhood friend, Willard “Pie” James, they utilized their gift of song and joined the gospel group Bells of Joy. Together, they traveled, lifting their voices in song to the glory of the Lord and touching hearts wherever they went. Later in life, Willie rededicated his life to the Lord and became a faithful member of House of Jacob Church under the spiritual guidance of Pastor V Coleman. There, Brother Gulley served the music ministry, continuing to share his gift and his faith with his church family as a member of the Adult Choir and Anointed Gospelaires. He would not mind redirecting and helping his fellow singers get back on key when they strayed away from the correct note. Outside of music, Willie was an amazing athlete. Willie talents shined on the field as a Semi-pro football player for a team out of Waterbury, CT. In addition, he loved fishing, all sports - especially football, spending time with family and creating lasting memories with those he held dear.

Willie was predeceased in death by his parents, Philip and I.V.Gulley, and his siblings, John “JC” Gulley, Bertha Gulley, and Laura-Bell Jackson. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Gordell Gulley; his children; his grandchildren, Ebony, Michael, Willie III, Shay Shay, Armani, Demetrius Precious, Omari, Lamar, Brianna, Camden, Shawn Jr., Elijah, Andre, and Aiden; and 3 great-grandchildren, in addition to nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of extended family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at House of Jacob Church, 142 Canton St, West Haven, CT 06516. Viewing will take place at 10am with a service to follow at 11am. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com.