Willie James Gaffney, Jr., 69, of Aliquippa passed away September 22, 2021 at Sewickley Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Willie, born July 30, 1952 in Union, SC to the late Willie and Elizabeth(Walton) Gaffney, Sr. he met and married his High School Sweetheart Joan Burrell-Gaffney where they remained together for over of 54 years. Upon graduating from Aliquippa High School as the star linebacker on the football team he earned a full scholarship to Louisville University. Once leaving college, Willie enlisted in the United States Army where he served his country for 4 years as a Specialist. Upon leaving the military, due to hard work and determination he worked at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazzette for almost 25 years. In his spare time one could see Willie watching his favorite football team, The Pittsburgh Steelers, and if he wasn't watching football or any other sports team he would be on his tablet as a focused Amazon Prime Shopper getting the best deals possible. Taking care of his family was his top priority so his love and devotion was evident to anyone who knew him. Willie was a loving and kind soul but will tell you just how he felt when the moment warranted. To say that his presence will be missed is an understatement and what he leaves behind will last forever in the hearts and minds of everyone he met.

In addition to his parents he was proceeded in death by his granddaughter, Joan Brosier; sisters Lee Norris Willis, Zinina Adamson and Connie Gaffney; brother Duncan Gaffney.

Willie is survived by his loving wife of 49 years Joan Burrell-Gaffney; devoted daughter Mona(David) Gaffney-Brosier; devoted son Jason Gaffney, Sr.; two grandsons, Jason Gaffney, Jr. and Jamir Brosier; sisters, Virgie(Gene) Saunders, Margaret(Franklin) Lindsey, and Gloria(George) Hill; brothers, Curtis(Mary) Gaffney and James(Tonya) Spencer, along with numerous nieces, nephews and friends. A long and devoted friend Daniel DelTurco.