He had a good loving life and now he’s in a better place

Randoms dinners in Kazakhstan!  Only with someone like Will

Four months & still surreal. Missing you all the time brother, not sure if that’s ever going to change. 

But, life has been good & I know you’re looking out from up above 🙏

Don't let the cute picture fool you, this was taken approximately thirty minutes before we attempted to drown each other in the pool after a disagreement over who had the best handstand (it was definitely me;)
Then we ate Doritos and Uncrustables washed down with Capri-Suns. Sunburns and laughter and pruny fingers. And I felt like a kid experiencing the magic of summer again for the first time. 
That's what most days with Will felt like. 
I'll love you forever, Will-Ham. Until we meet again<3

We met Will in Mexico and instantly thought he was a great guy. Loving soul. My wife and I knew he struggled with mental health. She would talk to him and knew how because I have PTSD from when  i was in the military. He would come over our house for a meal once in a while. He was a very genuine person whoo loved all. Had a great smile. 

We love you buddy. Rest in peace. See you on the other side.

Will was one of the kindest people  that I have ever met. I met Will last year when he became a front of house manager at grand lake lodge. He brought everyone’s spirits up when they were low, and cheered us on for success. When you needed a shoulder to cry on he was always there. He was incredibly funny and never failed to make us laugh hysterically. He called me papa and in return I called him mama (weird but we had fun with it). I am missing Will dearly, as we all are. I hope he is somewhere in the universe laughing and feeling at peace. I love you mama, forever and always

Will always lit up a room whenever he walked into it ;sharing his enthusiasm for the great outdoors. On our trip to Sedona a few years back we adventured new restaurants and new foods even though we had gone there for decades. I will miss his occasional phone calls.
We extend our condolences to the family. 
With all our love ,
Auntie Joan and Uncle Arnie

Dear Will,
We met 26 years ago when you were 4 years old and I was 67. It was love at first sight .We were at the Cape Cod Coast guard station where you your dad was stationed. The two of us spent the day together at a local playground, doing the swings, the seesaw, the slide, the monkey bars, and we had a fantastic time. I think that during the ensuing years,  whenever  we got together  that wonderful memory was always in our hearts.  I miss you so much. 
Hopefully our essences will be joined together someday, where we can feel the joy of each other once again.
With eternal love,
Your Uncle Arnie

Will was probably told to go stand by Sara for the picture.  She probably pinched him right after this was taken :).

So many memories over the years.  We will hold you close in our hearts until we are able to see you again.

Strategic targeting.....Adam didn't seem to mind.

This is in our backyard.  As neighbors I can't tell you how many times we hung out together, but we are thankful for them all!

This was at Ed's retirement ceremony.  Will was very helpful in keeping Adam entertained!

Will and Sara were more like oil and water.  Sara liked to push Will's buttons and Will couldn't retaliate or he would get in trouble :).

One of our many shared adventures with the Greiner Gang!  Will and Adam were best buds on these trips.  This and many other memories that we will never forget.  Rest in peace Will!  We will miss you!

Will was a friend of a friend but his energy was contagious. His kind heart left an impact on me when he helped me move out of my college apartment in Fredericksburg even though at the time he was barely an acquaintance. I was not close enough with Will to know about his struggles but I was around him enough to know he had an incredibly kind heart and appreciation for the beauty within all things. I hope his beautiful soul finds peace.

The first time I really hung out with and got to know you, I felt like we had already been friends for years. Hanging around Richmond, Stafford, and trips backpacking in Shenandoah will be some of my best memories of my life. We were just talking a few weeks ago about getting back in the woods since you were in the area again. Your sense of adventure, ability to touch others, and love of having a good time is how I will always remember you. Rest easy Will!

Can recall a cold winter night where Will literally gave me the jacket off his back. He always offered me rides when he knew I needed them.  I enjoyed conversation of his travels and exchanging thoughts on life’s mysteries. Either at the dinner table or hitting golf balls at the range, I enjoyed hanging with him. He baked excellent loafs of bread and was a joy to eat and laugh with.  I’ll never forget him.

I will forever cherish the photos I have of Will and my memories of his quick smile and infectious laugh.

There are No words that could ever describe the pain of such a tragic loss.  But Will's adventurous and passionate soul is so bright that everyone who had the honor of knowing him will always  carry a piece of that light with them. Through the memories shared and the impact he had on others, Will lives on.

Will was a frequent visitor to my home in Edenton, North Carolina with my sons and other college friends. We all had such fun singing to all hours of the night, kayaking, paddle boarding, and playing all sorts of games.  At night  they each took turns preparing a meal. We all looked forward to a meal prepared by Will. He was quite the cook. I personally will remember  his captivating stories, contagious, smile, his wit and enthusiasm for life.  My sons and I are absolutely crushed that he is no longer with us. I can’t express how heartbroken I am for his family and for the many friends who lost one hell of a guy.

I went to HS with Will.  I was so inspired by his friendly attitude. I constantly think of the way he was able to make me and everyone around us feel (I’m truly not kidding, to this day 15 years later I think of how he specifically made everyone around him feel so good) While I have not spoken to him since HS I parent my own son in a way to be like Will, to be kind to all even when it is not what everyone else is doing, that everyone is worth your time and a smile, to be intentional with his words. In my life I have mean very few people with as good of a heart. Will was an amazing person and his legacy will live on through everyone who had the privilege of meeting him.

Will’s father, is a dear friend and former colleague of mine, who I respect very much. He’s the reason my family and I came to know him. Will had expressed an interest in fly fishing and Ed, knowing that I am a passionate practitioner of that lifestyle, asked for some advice. I leapt at the chance to help and invited Will to our home one afternoon so I might share all I could with him. That was the beginning of a wonderful, but, ephemeral friendship.

Will was a polite, confident, and pleasant fellow to spend time with, he was easy to like. He had an enthusiastic curiosity and energetic sense of adventure that his body could barely contain. He eagerly absorbed every bit of fly fishing knowledge and information I had and graciously accepted the materials I gave to him that afternoon. We became quick friends and spent several, very enjoyable days fishing together afterwards.  He would often visit with us after a day on the water and that was when he would regale us with some of his anecdotes.

We were fascinated to learn that his life encompassed a disciplined and caring childhood, sports, martial arts, a college education at Longwood, and the love of both teaching and the Spanish culture. We enjoyed his stories about Spain and of teaching English while living in Central America; they began with the following caveat, “Please don’t tell me mother about this...” His was a Hemingway-like life full of travel and adventure, and like EH, Will had the ability to vividly describe how he lived amongst the locals, here and there, while simply attempting to get by. But, like chapters in a novel, the telling of one led to imagining another.

We learned he went to Colorado next – I admired his intrepid attitude. We later discovered he was home recovering from serious burns. He seemed upbeat during a recent phone call; we planned to get together soon. Farewell my friend, you are loved and will be missed

Will and I only ever saw eachother in group settings. He was super close with some of my family and we had a lot of mutual friends but didn’t get to spend time together one on one. Even still, whenever we crossed paths, he always went out of his way to be so kind to me. He came to a party I was at once carrying a huuuuuge container of juice he’d made for everyone. He put it down just to give me a hug so big that it picked me up off my feet. He made other people feel seen and appreciated. We’ll miss you bud. I wish we had more time together.

I first met Will in college and instantly knew I’d have a friend for life. He was the sweetest, funniest, most caring, gentle, adventurous person I have ever met. I’m going to miss you, Will. Rest in peace.

The first time we met Will was at Camp Horizons when we went to visit Shane. Will came bounding up to us telling us that Shane  was his brother from another mother. We took to him straight away, such a good guy and such a good friend to Shane. He visited us in Ireland and made us halloumi  cheese with walnuts and honey  which remains a firm favourite in our house. He said his Mum would kill him if he didn’t cook for us. We loved having him  in our home and feel very privileged to have met him. Rest in peace Will

Will was full of adventure, life, and brightened every room. It was an honor to know Will at Longwood and to touch base from time to time since. Always in a different country, different city when we did! Grateful to have known Will for those few short years. Praying for peace and comfort for his family today, and the days to come. Rest in peace Will.

My Son went to school with Wil. What a beautiful person. We are so very sorry to hear this. Please know we pray for you and know Wil is in a happy place. 
Shari Elder

Will was the most over the top person I've ever met. He made us all laugh so many times. I have so many memories with this guy that live on. You'll be missed buddy.

One thing everyone can agree on is how you always had a smile on your face. Our few years together with Longwood Rugby were memorable. Rest in peace Willy <3

Will, I'll always remember how much of a gentleman you were to me at senior prom and how thoughtfully you asked me to be your date - decorating my car in the CFHS parking lot! You were so excited to drive the convertible that night, and we had the best time dancing together with our friends despite the fact you were still recovering from a concussion. Thank you for making prom memorable and fun for us both.

Will was one of the first people I met at Longwood University where we both attended college. From the second I met him, I knew he was a kind and beautiful soul, his smile lit up the room. His laugh was contagious and his energy was electric. There was never a dull moment around him and he will be incredibly missed by many. Sending all of my love to his friends and family.

I love you Will. I’ll never forget all of the memories we created together. To Wills family please reach out to me if you need absolutely anything at all. 5409033309

Will and I attended Longwood University together and the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of him is his infectious laugh and smile. He was always smiling. Every time I saw him it was like he radiated this light and happiness. His smile and love for adventure will live on.

Will was one of my best friends in Stafford. I don't remember the first time we met but we were immediately close. I have countless memories of him making me laugh on the bus or in our parents' basements. And he had the best laugh. Even as a teenager, Will was one of the most caring people I’ve known. He always knew how to make me feel special and he never left or ended a phone call without saying "Love you, Buddy". 
We love you too, Will.

I first met Will in college as he played rugby and a shared an apartment with my husband. My first impression of him was a sweet, adventurous guy. During my visits he always cooked for me and made me late night tea. This was probably a little treat for cleaning their apartment haha. As time went on, he grew closer to my family and he addressed me as Mrs. Condor after my husband and I got married. He was truly one of the most caring people I have ever met and had so much love to give. His laugh was contagious and he really did give the best hugs. I will miss him dearly and wish he was here to meet my little boy but I know when he gets bigger we will tell him about his Uncle Will. I think we can all agree that he touched each of our lives in a special way. Sending lots of love to his family during this time.

Rachel, Lauren, Elaina, & Ed - I’ve been shocked and at a loss for words at this news. Sending all of my love and comfort to the four of you, your extended family, and friends of Will’s. 

I found some photos recently of our trip to Key West more than 20 years ago. I think there’s something about the younger siblings of childhood friends where time freezes and they are locked in your heart and mind as the little kid you first meet them as. Despite the years that have passed, this is how I will always remember Will, his wide-eyed optimism, adventurous spirit, and contagious bright smile.

A memory from us playing outside in the rain.

Will unsurprisingly impressed me by being so good to my father, which in relation, Will’s father was a coworker of my dad. And to be honest with you all, Will is the only visitor of my parents that I’d  be excited to greet. I’d always find myself glued to the couch listening to the movie-like experiences Will had, and from so many hidden crevices of our World. He is so open-minded, caring, intelligent, and enchanting. I took notes from his free spirit though for the couple of years he has been a friend to my father. I admire his courageousness, his desire to learn and experience. He truly lived,  and a lot of people on this Earth cannot say that. I am grateful to have been able to stay in touch during our similar life paths. I feel so deeply for his family and anyone across this world that had the honor of knowing him. Selfishly, this has had a significant impact on my mentality and view on life.  I have been struggling and took to him as inspiration on how to feel fulfilled and how to ride life unapologetically. I pray for forgiveness, strength, peace of what is, and love to his family. I cannot imagine how excruciating the grief will continue to feel. Nothing brings someone back but the memories live on and he had so many beautiful and slightly(extremely) crazy ones. He will always be.

A year later, when my sister Cati came to visit us in NY, Will and his lovely parents drove to meet us halfway in Philly. We spent a lovely day in between markets and historic buildings, having beers, hoagies, and cheesetakes. Thank you for sharing these moments with us. We miss you, Will!

That night, the night that we finally met the famous Will—my sister Cati made sure to tell everyone in my family how special, kind, and a good person Will was with her and with everyone at Longwood—I was excited and nervous, I felt like I knew Will since forever, but it was the first time we were in the same room. Will, after hearing I had moved to the US, immediately wanted to meet with us. So he reached out and we invited him home. He must have been one of the first visits we got during the pandemic at our new place. We talked about everything and anything over Mexican beers. His visit was a relief from pandemic isolation and I was so glad to finally meet the wonderful Will!

Rest easy brother. I will cherish the memories we got together. Never a dull moment around you. ❤️

Until next time my friend. You will be unconditionally missed that is for sure

Will, was one of a kind, he knew how to always put a smile on everyone’s face. Whenever, he entered a room he would always want to embrace in a big bro hug. He showed his love for his family and friends and often talked about his travel aspirations and next adventures. He was truly a salt of the earth dude, I know his love and strength will shine down and watch over all of us. Until we meet again my friend!

We loved it when Will would spend the day with us when we went to Akumal, Mexico. Best memory was the time he wanted Uncle Bruce and Aunt Linda to meet him in Playa de Carmen to eat at his favorite restaurant.  Our taxi driver wouldn’t leave us until Will showed up because it was definitely “off the beaten track”!  The meal was worth it. And Will was a very good tour guide in Playa de Carmen. He will definitely be in our memories each time we visit Mexican beaches.

Will with some of his Greiner cousins (Kim, Greg, and Niki) at a family camping trip at Glendo State Park, Wyoming

What a lovely write up and wonderful tributes from friends!  Will was well loved and a caring person.  That is a bit of comfort  to an aching heart.  Peace and love to all.  Dorea and Clyde Jones

Will was the first new friend I made in high school when we all got to Colonial Forge. I remember he came waddling up to me with his foot in a cast, sat down next to me and introduced himself.  We were friends from that moment. From having multiple classes with him, to playing lacrosse, to hanging out outside of school, I always could count on Will to be doing something to make someone smile and laugh. We didn't talk much after graduation but this is still devastating because I know if I had called him out of the blue, he still would have picked up the phone and everything would have picked right back up from where we left it. You will always be missed, but never forgotten.

Will was one of my first friends at Longwood. He was my go-to lunch buddy, and we bonded over healthy smoothies and our travel adventures. Like the true soul friend he was, we coincidentally ended up in the same friend group, and I was lucky enough to stay in touch with him after graduation, even during his wild, wonderful travels that I’d always laugh about, knowing he was off somewhere random and spectacular, doing what he loved most.

Even then, he was one of the few who would always comment on my social justice posts… never skipping a beat to be on the right side of history. He was one of the sweetest, most genuine people I’ve ever known, and it brought me so much joy every time he’d surprise us with a visit home.

The last time we saw each other was one of the best weekends—relaxing with the McKee’s in Edenton, NC. Will, of course, won “Best Chef” and took care of all of us. He was truly safe and happy. 

The last time we spoke, he was courageously battling his burns. Despite the pain, he was determined to overcome it, full force, just like always. 

And so no matter what, like this last photo I have of him, sword in hand, smiling in the sunshine… may we always remember Will in his strength ❤️🙏

I met Will at Camp Horizons and instantly knew how special he was. 

He was one of those rare people who made everyone feel seen and loved, always bringing positive energy and laughs to any room.

His passion for adventure and travel inspired me, always giving us a reason to keep touch and pick up where we left off.  

I’m so lucky to have shared such great times with Will, and even luckier to have had him as my friend.

Sending all my love to Will’s family and friends. x

I met Will at Camp Horizons and was so lucky to have known him. While he was still working at camp, I asked him to be my date to a wedding where I would only know a few people. He was the best person I could have asked to go with me.

On a trip to Spain in 2019 I got a response to an Instagram story from Will, saying that he also happened to be in Madrid, and did we want to meet up? With his whole backpacking gear in tow, we had 3 wonderful days eating Iberico ham and exploring the city. A wonderful happenstance that I will remember always

Riding around in the Corolla back in 2011. Will, you were one of my best friends and I do not want to say goodbye to you. I know you will always be with me. I love you.

Doing what we all loved together, traveling the world!  In Ushuaia, Argentina 10/24

I will miss our goofy chats and trips together my friend, rest in peace!

Will, the last time seeing you wasn’t enough. Thank you for your big bear hugs, infectious smile, and genuine conversation. You will always be adored and remembered fondly. Your Mom once told me that God’s love is infinite and big enough for everyone, and with that I take comfort in knowing that you’re somewhere, free from all pain, looking upon your family with love. ❤️

Through the years and all of the traveling Will did, he always kept contact and came to visit anytime he was nearby. The last time he came to visit we went on a 6 mile hike through the national forest and he was barefoot the whole time. Always grounded and up for a crazy adventure. Pizza was very much deserved after that :)

Will loved his friends like family and would bring anyone and everyone to his house to share a good meal and spend time outdoors.

I met Will at summer camp and we quickly became friends. One of my favorite memories of Will is when we hosted a talent show together. None of the kids thought we were funny so we just laughed with each other on the stage. I will miss his contagious laugh!

Now we miss you, and take for granted that I’ll be around a dinner table with all your friends, lifting a beer thinking of you ❤️‍🩹

We chatted only a few weeks ago. You were going to move to RVA and I was so excited to see you again. I lived vicariously through your adventures. Seeing you share your love with the world that we all knew you for was the best thing to witness. You were always the first one to step up when someone needed help or if you saw something wrong. Your heart was pure. Your love was strong. Your wisdom was my key to the world. You helped me through hard times and helped me become the man I am today  I cannot believe this.  I love you brother.

We’ll miss you around here Will, hope you’re at peace now. 
Cata and I are very thankful and pleased to meet you. We’ll dance on your memory in our wedding, we know you would have loved it and we would have loved it too. 

You’ll be forever in our hearts. 
Paco & Cata

Will could charm anyone and make friends anywhere in the world. Here he is with old friends and the local Porteños he instantly befriended.

Will’s JOY for learning and experiencing and loving could move mountains. There’s no doubt in my mind that there are dozens of campers and counselors out in the world right now THRIVING because of a summer spent with Will by their side. His laughter was a cure all for our summer camp woes, and his heart a safe space for us to be our truest selves.

Miss you, friend. I’m sure you’ve got the next adventure lined up and I can’t wait to hear about it!

You always dreamed of big, great things. That’s how I’ll remember you — a heart full of light and a soul reaching beyond.

I’ll miss you every single day, brother. But I know your light will never fade. It will keep shining in me and in everyone whose life you touched.

You had this quiet strength. Even when things were hard for you, you found a way to motivate others and never let your own struggles show. That was your gift.

I’m proud beyond words that you called me your brother. It wasn’t just a word to you — it was a bond, and I’ll carry that honor with me for the rest of my life.

Buddy, I’ll never forget that day in the mountains. You thought we were heading out for an easy hike, but it turned into a full-on climb up sheer rock faces. Some people stopped halfway and turned back. But not you. You kept going, step after step, and made it all the way to the top — even without any climbing experience.

I can still see your smile when we reached the summit. That pure, childlike joy you had… it lit up everyone around you. You had this rare gift of making people feel alive in the moment.

These photos from that day will always remind me of that smile. That’s how I’ll carry you in my heart.

While lots of memories stand out from hanging out with Will, one thing that really speaks to his character is when he made a petition for everyone at the summer camp we worked at to sign, asking for more time off from the higher ups. This wasn’t in the least bit motivated by Will’s own needs, much the opposite as he was acutely aware of the backlash he might receive, but purely by the needs of those around him, constantly putting everyone above himself.

Will was the best friend anyone could ask for, constantly open minded, positive and caring about everyone around him. While he’ll be missed so much, the memories I have with him will last me for a lifetime. I remember meeting him at Glasgow bus station in 2018 some time after midnight after not seeing him for months and months and within moments it was as though we’d seen each other the day before. I’m sure it’ll be just the same when we meet in the next life!

Will you traveled and taught English in Kazakhstan and Morocco, you lived in Spain and Portugal, you climbed volcanoes in Guatemala, you climbed half of the Appalachian Trail. You lived life to the fullest. I will miss the laughs and the talks on the phones, but I will forever cherish our friendship. Rest easy my friend

Taken at our last house we lived in together.

Will had a little scooter he rode around when we lived together in Mexico. He loved his little scooter so much he would often times wear the helmet around even when he wasn't on it haha

I spent 2 incredible summers with Will at camp in 2017/18, his passion for the outdoors was contagious. I know he had such a positive impact on all of his campers, and he inspired so many that will carry a peace of him with them throughout their lives.

Quick lunch in Buenos Aires by the river. Thank you and your great family for all the support and friendship towards my daughter Catalina during her stay at Longwood University. Wish I had the opportunity to share more time with you dear Will.

Will was such an interesting and incredible person. Quite literally the opposite of boring. He loved his friends and family soo much. Actually he loved anyone that was in his life even if it was just a quick interaction. Love you  Will. Talk soon. Nos Vemos ❤️

From my Facebook Album, written on 2.15.2016
—-
I spent the weekend at  Will Greiner 's home in Stafford County, VA. He's a guy I met at Longwood that since my very first day here has been so friendly and introduced me to a lot of friends. He's a Global Leader, this means that he belongs to a "club" that aims to help international students during our first days here. He invited me and Jack, an exchange student from Plymouth, England, to come over to his house during the weekend. On friday evening we left Longwood University to go to Stafford, where Will's mom welcomed us with a great dinner: some delicious tacos. On saturday morning we woke up really early and had breakfast with Will's sisters. Then we headed to DC and walked around the city so I could see the monuments, museums and memorials. It was sooooooooo cold but it was really worth it. It was so much fun!!!! Finally we ended saturday with a great big dinner altogether in a beautiful table: candles, red napkins... it was a Happy Valentine's day! Will's family made me feel like home, they gave me a gift for Valentine's day and even Lauren, Will's sister, trimmed my hair! Valentine's menu was Ravioli with meatballs and sausages and as a dessert we had Red Velvet Cake. Today we woke up and we had a great American breakfast: Will's dad made delicious waffles with fruits, syrup and butter. Finally we headed to Richmond to see some of VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University) and ended up at HOME: Longwood University! I'm really happy!!!! ♥

What a wonderful day together. Love you, forever ❤️‍🩹

Remember you were betting on me not finishing my philly cheesesteak so that you can have it??? I ate it all!

OBITUARIO

William Greiner

1 noviembre, 1994 – 1 julio, 2025

Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service

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