Nigel Francis Wills, 73, passed away on February 25, 2025, in Dallas, Texas.

Born on October 11, 1951, in London, England, Nigel spent his early childhood in Iran, where his father worked for the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company, later known as BP. The family later settled in Sevenoaks, Kent, where he grew up before moving to Otford at age 15 so his grandmother could live with them.

From a young age, Nigel showed a sharp mind and an adventurous spirit. The Wills family was ahead of its time in international travel, embarking on road trips to Spain long before package holidays were common. With no GPS or sat nav, Nigel was tasked with navigating these journeys by map, leading to some notably long detours—later referred to as the family’s own “Tour de France”—and a couple of close calls with ferry departures.

His work ethic was evident early on, starting with a paper route so ambitious that the police once brought him home for being out too early. Later, he took a job as a wine waiter at the restaurant near his home, which sparked a lifelong appreciation for fine wine. His knack for mischief also showed—once taking his younger sister to a pub where they were caught by her headmistress. Expecting punishment, they were surprised when their parents took their side, pointing out she hadn't actually been drinking alcohol.

Nigel attended Solefields School and St. Thomas's in Sevenoaks before continuing his education at Maidstone Grammar School, where he was head boy. He later went on to Newcastle University, earning a BSc in Geology.

He began his career with the National Coal Board in the UK before joining Alfred McAlpine, where he worked on geological exploration projects in South Africa. Following his time there, he was transferred to the United States to facilitate the acquisition of R&S Materials. He remained in the U.S. as the company acquired Becker Minerals, then transitioned under Hanson Aggregates and later Lehigh Cement, which became part of Heidelberg Materials. Through his dedication and expertise, he eventually rose to the role of Director of Land and Mineral Services for North America, retiring after more than 35 years of service.

Nigel was deeply involved in the industry, serving terms as President of both the Mining Association of South Carolina and the North Carolina Aggregates Association.

Beyond his professional life, Nigel was a lifelong train enthusiast, with a meticulously cataloged collection of British model trains from the grouping era and early British Rail. He also collected Royal Mail stamps and had an enduring love for British classic rock, Premier League soccer, Formula One racing, and a proper English beer—especially Fuller’s ESB.

While living in Cheraw, South Carolina, Nigel and his family were members of St. David's Episcopal Church. He also chaired the committee that helped establish the current location of the Matheson Library, ensuring the community had an improved and expanded public library. A hardworking man with high standards, he believed in doing things the right way and always wanted the best for the people he loved.

Nigel is survived by his wife, Debra (Debbie) Wills; his children, Jeremy Wills and Fiona Wills; his stepchildren, Boone Dryden, April Jones, and Jalana Schmidt; his grandson, Oaklan McIntosh; and step-grandchildren, Josephine Jones and Kenzie Martinez. His former wife and the mother of his children, Pamela (Pam) Wills, remains an important part of his story. He is also survived by his mother, Marian Wills; his siblings, Alison Richardson and her husband, Robert; and David Wills and his wife, Sue. He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Wills.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Allen Family Funeral Options in Plano, Texas, with a short reception immediately following the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nigel’s memory to the National Railway Museum (UK) to honor his lifelong passion for trains or to Friends of the Chesterfield County Libraries (SC) to support the library he helped expand.

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