My dear Thorp family, My heart grieves with you for our dear Will. He was like a second son to me when he and Johnny were in school. He was a wonderful friend to Johnny, and I was grateful to have a quality person in Johnny’s life, especially from the Thorp family, one of my all time favorites. I’m sorry I never had the opportunity to get to know you, Sherry and Helen, but I’m thankful he had a wonderful wife and daughter and a happy family. Heaven is filling up with my loved ones. I often think of the cloud of witnesses cheering us on to finish well. And our Father God is for us, so who can be against us. May you experience the overwhelming love of God and His wraparound Presence. Love, Boots Brown

I was proud to call Will my friend. I met him a number of years ago and he was one of the most giving people that I have ever known. I met him at the Outer Banks Gun Club where he was a avid skeet shooter and also hosted the High School Teams. We all stand diminished by his passing. May he Rest in Peace.

Hoping you are now enjoying adventures in the prairies, sounds, potholes, forests and fields that us sportsmen, friends and family have had the pleasure to share with you!

There are no words. Our hearts are broken. Will was such a good man and a good friend. Our trips to South Dakota together will always be special memories. Sherry and Helen, he loved you dearly. We are here for you. RIP dear friend.

Sherry and Helen I am so sorry to hear of Will’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Cathy Barnes

To the family of Will Thorp - I'm heartbroken over the news of Will's passing - he was way too young to leave this earth but God called him home for a reason. My family lived next door to Lewis and Harriet Thorp in the 60's when Will was just a baby and for 5 years. My brothers and I were friends with Little Lewis, Will and Routh, his sister, was my best friend growing up in Rocky Mount. Our family moved away and I lost touch with Will and Routh but was reconnected with Will, and his sister, through our trips to the Outer Banks where we dined at our favorites, Run Down Cafe and High Cotton. The Thorps have always had a special place in our family's heart and our friendship with other members of the family have just grown since the 60s. Rest in Peace Will and may Sherry, Helen, the Thorp family and all who loved Will feel God's presence as you grieve. Love to all.

Sherry and Helen, I’m so very sorry for your loss. Will was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever known. He was so generous to our community, giving every time he was asked. He will be truly missed. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. ❤️

Mr. Will was a great man, awesome friend, and a true supporter of my family and my business. He always showed nothing but love, kindness and respect to my wife, son, and myself, he helped me get going in my business with a loan to help ease the struggles of not having anyone to fall back on in though times as a beginner business owner, he also booked full day fishing charters for his kitchen staff 3 years in a row with me and we will never forget him. Love ya will.

Sherry & Helen, I am sending so much love to you. This is a devastating loss to you and our community. Will was a class act, I was always so happy to run into him. It was my honor to know him, I am so sorry, so sad, wishing strength for you both.

I am so sorry to learn of Will’s passing. Fred and I enjoyed talking with him whenever we visited the restaurant. I will keep you and Helen in my prayers during this difficult time. If you ever want to talk, I am here for you. Sandy

The Outer Banks has been blessed with many legendary men. A man of God whose joy was to share the aromas and flavor of life unique to northeast North Carolina. I know of no one who took such delight in describing and sharing the taste of a place seasoned with love, history and good folk. Our heartfelt love to you, Sherry and Helen.

We just heard and we are so unbelievably sorry to hear of Will’s sudden passing. Our hearts ache for you and the pain you all must be feeling right now. Sending you strength, hugs, comfort and love through continuous prayers. Love you very much!🙏🏻♥️

My deepest condolences to your family. Im so saddened. Wil was one of the best human beings I've ever known. His kindness and thoughtfulness is beyond words.

We are terribly sorry to learn of Will's death. We'd always stop at High Cotton when we were in NC. Will was always so friendly. He will be missed. Death casts a dark shadow that cannot linger long in the lovely light of a life well lived. Please accept our sincere condolences. Joe and Suzanne Kaye

I met Will when I visited my sister who lived on the OBX. We would have dinner at Tortuga’s. He would show my children how to peel fresh steamed shrimp which we didn’t have much of in Pennsylvania. I bought a Tortuga’s sweatshirt to bring home to Pennsylvania to remind me of the beautiful visit with my sister on the Outer Banks and the kindness Will showed me and my children. Will was a wonderful person. I am sending his beloved family my prayers and to let them know what a wonderful person Will was and how he touch our lives with kindness.

I met Will years ago he was actually a client of mine when I used to cut hair many years ago. I remember going to his restaraunt Tortuga’s Lie where he always welcomed me and my little twins for dinner, steamed shrimp was our favorite! Will always had warmest smile ever! Sending all the love and comfort to his beautiful wife and daughter. He will be missed tremendously but never forgotten. My best Tori L.Peters

As nice of a guy you’ve ever met

The Nuzzi family is heartbroken with this news…what a loss ..wrapping Sherrie and Helen in prayers of comfort🙏🙏

May you rest in peace. One of my family’s most treasured friends.

To the Thorps, who are the closest, most loving family I know, my thoughts and prayers go up to you. Lewis, Routh and David, I love you so. Your brother will be greatly missed. Sherry and Helen, you were so blessed to have him. His legacy will carry on through you.

Sherry and Helen, we are so sorry to hear of Will's passing. Our thought and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Dear Sherry and Helen, My deepest condolences to you. It was a privilege to know Will and my prayers go to you during this time. I always admired how proud Will was of Helen’s fierce independence. He was the Dad all horse girls should have. Love to you.

Sherry and Helen, our hearts are broke for you both. We are here for you if we can do anything. Praying for peace at this difficult time .

We were extremely saddened to learn of Will's passing. He was always very considerate and kind. We will really miss him. Our deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss.

Sherry and Helen, I was so sorry to hear of Will's passing. Sending you both and extended family prayers for comfort, strength, and guidance. May God hold you in his arms as you move forward .

My deepest condolences! Will and I grew up as neighbors in Rocky Mount. His family home was a gathering place for the many boys in our neighborhood to play basketball, sometimes past midnight. Prayers for the family!

Sherry and Helen I don’t have enough words of how sorry our whole family is to learn about Will. We had a common link through his dad that blossomed to a wonderful friendship. He loved youll so much and always showed it and told it. We will pray for the whole family. Love to youll

Prayers for comfort go out to Will's family. I had the pleasure of working with Wills father for many years. I was always amazed at Wills photographic memory. He was such a blessing to visit at High Cotton when we went to Nags Head. May he rest in peace.

Dear Sherry and Helen, We are devastated to hear of Will's passing. As vacationers in the 1990's, Rundown Cafe was our first stop each visit. Will made us feel so welcomed, always remembering our names. He was such a gifted restaurateur and with you and Helen by his side, continued his success with High Cotton. He will be so missed by so many. Our hearts and prayers are with you both. Kevin and Robin

Sherry and Helen I am so sorry for your loss.Will was such a great guy loved by so many. Chris

Just a chasm of loss ……. Loved by so many and my best friend …. An endless void to fill.

Our sincere sympathy goes out to your family.

Great man, great friend. Caring thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless. Joe Weeks

Sherry and Helen, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I always enjoyed having lunch at High Cotton back before the pandemic when we could sit inside. Will was always at the register when we checked out and always had great conversation with Him. He will be missed. Heart felt thoughts and prayers, John

Always charming. Always welcoming. As if you were a long time friend. You could tell he loved life, family & what he did. Outer Banks has lost a true champion. God blessed us with him.

This was a real shock to hear of Will’s passing. He created some of the best quality restaurants on the OBX and was a great person. He will be missed! My thoughts are with his family.

Sherrie & Helen Sending love and light to you from South Dakota. May you have Gods grace as you go forward. He was such a wonderful friend and mentor. He will ll be missed.

Our deepest condolences on Will’s passing. A great man with a big heart and the best BBQ in NC. Rest in Peace Will.

My family and I are so sorry to hear this. We are from Gaithersburg, Maryland and enjoyed talking to Will every time we were at High Cotton for many years. Our love and prayers to his family and friends.❤️🙏

Our deepest sympathy to the family. He was such a nice guy.Rad and I thought the world of him.

Helen and Family, this is Mrs. Beulah from Owen’s Restaurant sending Love and Prayers to you all. Will was a good friend and you know I used to Love seeing you come in as a little girl. Will showed Me a picture a few months ago and what a beautiful young lady you have become. He was so proud of you and your skills with your horse.❤️🙏🏾💔

Sherry, Helen, Family & Friends, Our condolences and prayers are with. May God’s peace be with you. We will miss Will. Respectfully, Jeff & Heidi McShea Barbara Nottingham

To the family of Will Thorp, I am so sorry for your loss. This was heartbreaking news to hear. Will was a wonderful person and will be missed dearly. Rest Easy Will!

Dear Sherry and Helen Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Will’s love for the two of you was as deep and abiding as any I’ve seen. I will always remember the beautiful and wonderful ways he walked out the commitment he had for each of you. Almost every conversation I had with him included the two of you. He wanted you both to be happy, strong and free, and to accomplish the things that were important to you. I know his heart’s desire was to do everything he could to make that possible. Praying for your comfort and provision at this time of great loss. Please know we’re here for you if you need anything. Much love, Linda

We are deeply saddened by the news of Will’s passing. May his wife, daughter, family and friends be wrapped in comforting arms I the days ahead. A kinda sole, a friend, a businessman, family man and a friend to all! 😘❤️🙏

My deepest sympathy goes out to you all, Will was such a great man, with a great big heart!! He was always talking about Helen, and so proud of her!! He gave my niece Kelsey such a great start on her working career and work ethic!! Thinking about you all!

Sherry & Helen, I’m deeply sorry for your loss. Cannot put into words how meaningful his friendship was to me. You two are in my prayers. If I can help in any way please reach out to us.

Dear Helen and Sherry, I am so saddened by this news. Will was such a kind and generous soul. And his love for both of you was always obvious. May his spirit guide you through this unimaginably difficult time.

Our hearts are broken over the news of Will's passing. Will always had time for a visit, no matter how busy he was. A true Outer Banks icon who was so gracious with his time, talent and treasure. Our prayers are with Sherry and Helen, family and all those who loved him, just like us!

I’ve known him for twenty plus years, and saw him frequently at OBXWA events as well as patronizing High Cotton for many years. I will miss his kindness and quiet demeanor and know that his shoes will never be filled in the same way again. I’m sure everyone is saddened by his passing. Won’t be another Will…..

My deepest sympathies to the entire family. I did not personally know Will but have heard about him for decades. Routh, his sister, and I have been friends for years. She always spoke about Will with great admiration and love. I could tell from her conversations about him that he was a truly good man.

Prayers for the family. We would be in once week to dine,also a great time conversing with Will. Always will remember Will's unwavering support for Law Enforcement. Raised a family in Will's restaurants. Remember the days of Will started out in the restaurant business and I started career Law Enforcement. Will be missed my friend by all

Please know you and Helen in our thoughts and prayers. We were stunned to learn of Will’s passing. He was a great friend and will be missed by all who lives he touched.

Our hearts are crying. Knowing Will was a great joy in our lives. Our heartfelt condolences to Will's entire family.

We are very sorry for your loss. Will was a true gentlemen and his wit will be surely missed.

Sherry & Helen, Please know how sorry we are about Will’s passing, and how much we will miss him. There are very few times in a person’s life when they meet, and are immediately welcomed by a truly good person. They are rare. Will was one of those people and we are honored to have known him, and to be his friend, which we always will be. It was always good to see him and catch up on family events. You two were the light of his life! Please know that we are here if you need anything. May God bless you and comfort you and all who will miss this wonderful man. Sincerely, Jim and Mary Harrison

I met Will as a customer first and then as his advertising rep. He was pleasant, professional, and a great restaurateur. Sure will miss seeing him at the restaurant and around town. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. May God Bless you all during this sad time, and may he rest in peace.

Will had a heart of gold, always reaching out to others, holding his wife and daughter close to his heart. This community will miss him tremendously.

You were always so good and generous to us and we will miss you so much. God only knows why the good die so young, but you made such a difference in your young life and only God knows what you are cooking up for Him in heaven.

I’m so sorry for your loss. He was such a generous and kind man. He will be missed.

Prayers for your family Will. You always treated me with kindness and always took care of us no questions asked. God bless.

Becky, Breanne and I are so sorry to hear of Will’s passing. He was always so friendly and welcoming and an all around nice person. We are so sorry for your loss.

I so sorry Sherry and Helen. Much love sent to the family.

I'm so sorry to hear of Will's passing. Much love and prayers to Sherry, Helen and the rest of the family. He will be missed.

Will was a Great Friend who I met several years ago. His love of Pirate stories and seeing old Spanish coins was only surpassed by his love for his wife and daughter. We sat many hours exchanging my Treasure stories for his stories of his daughter’s love of horses. I will truly miss Will for his friendship and his love for family and country. He was a wonderful restaurateur who loved the OBX….R.I.P. Will Thorp….your friend, Tim Rice

Shocking is what comes to mind first. I’m at a loss for words. Will has always been so kind and wonderful to me and my family. He always went out of his way to say hi, give a hug and a smile. Will and family went out of their way to make our son Devin comfortable and loved. Supported us for our son’s memorial. Just a wonderful man and family all around. Will I hope you and Devin are having the best time fishing. Forever tight lines. Love the Williams family.

Dear Sherry and Helen, Our hearts are broken for both of you, especially since the sudden loss of JJ’s older son Chad in 2020. At times, we felt our grief was going to completely, physically and emotionally overwhelm us so we understand some of what you’re experiencing right now. We just wanted to say that it has been a pleasure to live next door to your family all these years. We were very saddened by Will’s passing but we are so grateful to have called him and you and Helen our friends. Will was one of the finest, most generous and caring humans we’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. I was commenting to Ethan about how unfair his loss was at such a young age and Ethan said to me “God picks the prettiest flowers first” and sadly, in Will’s case that’s true. He was a man of exceptional character and his loss will be felt by so many in our neighborhood and our community. We will continue to keep you and Helen in our prayers and we’re all 3 here for both of you night and day if there’s anything either of you need. He was a great guy and I hope that you both will celebrate his life, talk about the memories you made as a family and tell stories about him that bring you comfort, make you laugh and bring you both happiness. I know that we would love to hear them! May God wrap you in his comforting arms and give you peace as you try to navigate through these troubled times. Much love, The Jones Family 💕🙏🏼 TX::2

Our deepest sympathy for you and your family. Just heartbreaking 💔. We are so sorry, gone to soon.

As kids, Will and I grew up together in the same church, in Rocky Mount. As young adults, we happened to attend the same cooking school at the same time, in Asheville. From time to time, when we’d return to Nags Head, I’d drop by his restaurants to see Will and to enjoy his success as a restaurateur. Though we were never what you’d call, close, now that he’s gone, he was closer than I knew. I miss a very kind and gracious gentleman, Will Thorp. May the hope of the risen Christ comfort and encourage Will’s family, to whom I extend heartfelt condolence.

I am truly sadden by Will's death, He was one of the kindest men I have ever known. I will miss his smiling face and friendly manner.

I am so sorry to hear of Will's passing. He was one of the nicest people I ever got the pleasure of meeting. Prayers for the family in your time of loss. He will be missed.

My heart aches for you Sherry. Will was one of the best men I've ever known. May God's peace surround you & Helen In your time of need and beyond. Larry & I send our most sincere condolences & our prayers. He will be missed.

I had just spoken to Will on Wednesday. We were planning our annual hunt club banquet. He did not sound like the Will I have known for years. Then on Friday one of our members call to say, Will had passed. We are all heabroken by his passing. Many of our members have known Will for years. To say we will miss his whit an friendship, we considered him one of us. Sherry and Helen, please accept our deepest condolences. God Bless you and know that Will is in our hearts.

I’m am so saddened to hear of Will’s passing. He was one of the first people we met when moving to Kitty Hawk many years ago. He was so welcoming and kind. Sherry, I am thinking of you and sending love and strength to you and Helen.

I was blessed to have known Will and even more blessed to call him my friend. His smile was infectious and would light up a room. Will was the epitome of a good man, honorable and sincerely kind and will be missed dearly. The light in Will’s eyes shined so brightly when speaking of his wife Sherry’s accomplishments and their daughter Helen’s love of horses and riding, his love for them was beautiful. My thoughts and prayers are with them both. For Helen, “ If ever there come a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever..” Winnie the Pooh ….. You are the best part of him and that means he will be forever alive in your heart.

My heart goes out to Sherry and Helen for their loss. As I remember, Will loved Sherry with all of his heart and was so thrilled to be a husband and a father. I am lifting Sherry and family up in love, light and continued prayer. <3

Dearest Sherry & Helen - thinking of you all with love & healing thoughts. Xoxo Nancy & Fred Brandell

I first met Will some 30 years ago vacationing when he was at Tortuga's. I followed him to Rundowns and High Cotton. Will always made you feel comfortable and always took time to talk to you no matter how busy he was. He went out of his way to help many. He was a true gentleman who loved his family. He was a smiling face that will be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.

Sherry & Helen, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible time. We are devastated by the loss of our friend Will. A bright light has gone out of lives. May God’s comforting peace surround you and carry you through the tough days ahead.

So sorry to hear about Will. Always enjoyed going to High cotton for dinner.

So sad to hear of Will's passing. His restaurant was one of my husband's favorite places to eat lunch and get carry-out to bring home. He always took the time to chat with David and catch up on family and work. He was a very special man and will truly be missed. Sending strength to his family during this difficult time.

May God bless you and keep you and make his face shine upon you. Rest easy brother. Thanks for the shooting advice. You will be missed.

Will was a great friend and one of the nicest people i’ve ever known. My condolences to Sherry and Helen. If you ever need anything please let me know.

So sorry to hear this terrible news, we will truly miss seeing him at restaurant. God bless you all.

So very sorry to hear of will”passing. He will surely be missed by all the locals. Our thoughts and prayers for you all.

Dear Sherry and Helen, I'm so very sorry for your loss. It was a honor and pleasure to know Will. I'm so glad to have had time to speak with him at the horse show in December. He was always a great pleasure to be around and showed so much kindness to all. And.....he loved you both so very much and always spoke of you whenever I saw him. Sending heartfelt condolences to you and your extended family.

Will is my younger brother, but he was one of he most fun and interesting people I have ever known. I called him every week or two and visited OBX to see him at least once a year. I talked to him before he passed and know he is with the Lord and happy, including meeting his mother who died when he was two. At the same time, he leaves a big hole in the universe for those of us who knew and loved him.

Will, will sure be missed by the friends he's made over the years and for all the good deeds for his community.

I am so sorry for your loss. He sure looks like a Lewis. May in rest in peace.

We are so terribly sad to hear of Will's passing. What a wonderful human being who will be sorely missed. Thinking of your family.

Dearest Sherry and Helen - My most heartfelt condolences. Sherry, you and Will go back to our earliest OBX days with Friends of Youth. And then horses, with you Miss Helen. Will was someone that I always felt close to and loved how he could easily make me laugh. I will miss him very much. Hugs to you both Linda

Jim and I will miss Will’s kind and caring heart. We could always count on Will for a good story. He was a wonderful businessman, friend and father, who adored his daughter immensely. You could see his face light up with joy and pride when he spoke of his Helen. We will miss you Will. Our thoughts and prayers to the whole family.

Will was a friend to everyone and will truly be missed on the OBX. Our deepest sympathies to Sherry and Helen. Fly high Will....

Sherry and Helen, you two were absolutely his world!! We echo these many heartfelt sentiments. Sending most sincere condolences.

God bless you both. I am saddened by the news and send my love!

Dearest Sherry. I am shocked and so saddened by your loss. Living across the street from you while our children grew into the young adults they are now, it was such a joy. I have so many wonderful memories of Helen, Jess and Nathan running back and forth between our houses. We always knew our kids were safe & having fun with you and Will. Basically, you both were part of our family. Sending you and Helen much love. Praying for comfort during this time of loss.

Will was an amazing man and an unwavering supporter of law enforcement in Dare County. I will cherish the stories Will told, and the smile that was always on his face when I walked into the restaurant. May you rest in peace Will, and forever walk in High Cotton. On behalf of the officers of the Town of Duck Police Department, our thoughts and prayers are with the Thorp family.

Sherry and Helen, We are so sorry to hear of Will's passing. He was a prince of a man who always showed our family great kindness and compassion. We loved seeing his friendly smiling face and eating his great barbeque at High Cotton. We will never forget the kindness that you and Will have displayed to Shelby, helping her in so many ways as only close friends can. We will pray for y'all daily and never forget Will's kind and giving spirit.

To the Thorp family, Sending our prayers and love to your family. Such a privilege to have known Will over the years.

Sherry and Helen, I am truly sorry for your loss. Kind, funny and always welcoming, Will made my integration in the Outer Banks community a little easier. Seeing his smiling face and often a kind word about his wife who speaks beautiful French always made this French Canadian smile. As a loved one leaves us we can only be grateful to have had such special person in our lives. Je suis avec vous en pensée. Johanna-

To the family of Will Thorp. I was williams first breakfast waitress at Run Down Cafe years ago. He was such a funny guy, and a good boss. He and my husband at the time Marvin Peters went to culinary school together. I moved from the outer banks to Utah, so I never got to meet, his wife or daughter, but you all are in my prayers and thoughts. I did see Will years later when I came down to visit, at his restaurant High Cotton. Again my sincere condolences to you all. He will be missed by a lot of good people

To the Thorp family - I am so sorry to hear of Will’s passing. He was my next door neighbor for 13 years until we moved away. He was a great friend when we were growing up, and lost touch over the years. RIP my friend. Tim

Sherry and Helen: We were so sorry to hear of Will's passing, he was a great acquaintance and friend of ours for over 25 years. He will be deeply missed on the Outer Banks. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May he rest in peace. Mayor Don and Sharon Kingston

Will will forever be tied to one of the happiest days of our lives - our wedding reception at High Cotton! From there we had the absolute privilege to get to know the Thorp Family as friends. Will loved his family and often shared stories about Helen and Sherry. We always looked forward to see the family when we visited and exchange cards and texts throughout the year. You could always hear the pride and love for his family in his voice. We will miss Will terribly. Sherry and Helen, please let us know if we can do anything to make this time a little easier. -Chrissy, Sasha & the girls

Sherry and Helen so very sorry Will was one of the first people I met when I moved to outer banks 38 years ago if you need anything call me

Am so sorry to hear of Will’s passing. Enjoyed seeing and talking to him over the last 10+ years. Will was a good man. Sending our deepest condolences and prayers to all of his family and many friends.

We are so very sorry to hear of Will's passing. He was so very kind and a wonderful host. He was always so proud to share the wonderful stories about Helen & her adventures as she was growing up.

We are so sorry and to hear of Will’s passing. Will surely will be missed. He always had a great story and warm smile to go with any conversation we ever had with him. Sherry, you and Helen are in our thought and prayers while you both navigate your way through your new journey in life.

I know when Will arrived at the golden gates he was welcomed by many many friends.Oh what comfort to all. RIP my friend.

Will was definitely a person who once you met him you were a true friend. I will be keeping his family in my thoughts and prayers. The Outerbanks has lost a true icon in the restaurant scene. To you Will I will raise my red cup.

I loved Will! We had great adventures out in South Dakota! A friendship that spanned quite a few years. He will be missed but remains fondly in my memories and heart! I love you both Sherry and Helen too!

My sister Joann and I are so very sorry… When I first moved to Kitty Hawk, I was introduced to Will at the old Rundown, and knowing I was far from home, he made me feel welcome and “seen.” What a kind, funny, warm, giving, salt-of-the-earth, truly one of a kind man. 💗💔

Our deepest sympathy for your family. A wonderful and giving man.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Thorp family. There wasn't a holiday from the Christening of my daughters through graduation from high school, and many birthdays, that Will catered for my family. At least a few times a week we always had work lunch from High Cotton! I will miss him dearly.

I loved Will. He is the reason I had my last home which was his home. He visited me a lot and would see my sister in Asheville! We all loved his kind big heart. He will be missed by many!

My Heart Is Heavy losing such a wonderful friend. My Life was Better for Will and I Becoming Friends and Hunting Buddies. There are people you meet in Life that change your Life for the Better and anyone that Will cared about and was willing to invest in friendship was Better for Knowing Will Thorpe. I Love you my Brother and I will Miss You! I'll keep your Deer Stand ready for you and all of us at MT CARMEL HUNT CLUB will always remember your Kindness and Your Love for the Outdoors. We Miss You!! Robbie Busby

Sherry and Helen, my sincere condolences to you and your family. Will was a very special person and will be extremely missed. When I asked about the family he just glowed when he spoke about Helen and her accomplishments. He was a family man through and through. May thoughts and prayers are with you. Maureen

My condolences to Will's family and friends. I knew Will since the early days of Tortuga's Lie in Nags Head where we did AC and refrigeration work and then when we did the AC work at the original Rundown Cafe at the Old Journey's End building in Kitty Hawk. I remember standing in the dark with him inside the old Journey's End building as he explained his vision for Rundown Cafe and it surely was an appropriate name considering the condition of the old Journey's End building we were standing in. He had a vision for how to do things when it came to restaurants, that's for sure. He will be missed by many, including me.

Sherry and Helen, I was shocked to read the news of Will’s passing. My heart breaks for you both . I loved being his neighbor in our little Ice Cream Shop. He was such an inspiration to me when I first opened . It was great having someone like Will to make you smile and tell you you’re gonna do OK. I know my kids love to go down and get dinner and would always come back and say Mr. Will gave us this. He has such a big heart. I can remember him bringing Helen in for her first ice cream with us and then other days that they would visit together and don’t tell mom dad just got a little one. Sherry, I’m sorry for your loss he will be greatly missed. God bless you and I will keep you in my prayers.🙏 Kim Fulcher.

My dear Sherry and Helen, It is with great sadness that I have just learned of William's passing. A caring and courteous man, with a smile for everyone. France held a special place in his heart and yours, he loved traveling and sharing. Receive my deepest condolences, my love and prayers. Anne

My most heartfelt condolences for Sherry, Helen, extended family and friends. Prayers that they may find peace, comfort and warmth in the many fond memories of good times shared.

Sherry and Helen, my daughters and I are deeply saddened for your loss. There are no words that can describe the loss felt. From the 1st time we walked into Hi Cotton (15+ years ago) and met Will, he made my daughters and I feel like family. That special feeling continues to this day. My daughters still call him Uncle Will. He was one of the reason why we kept returning to OBX every year since. We will miss his friendship dearly. Rest in peace my friend.

I am so saddened to hear of Will's death. Will and I sat beside each other in homeroom for 3 years in Ms Privott's class at RMSH. Will worked hard and made a great name and life for himself and his family at the Outer Banks. Will made it a better place for so many. God Bless you Will and your family. Benny Roberson '79

Sherry Burt and I were so sorry to hear of Wills passing. Our sincere and loving thoughts are with you,Helen and family.❤️ Burt /Vicki Maclean Nova Scotia Canada

To Ruth and family. I am very sorry to hear about your brother Will. He was the nicest guy.

Like most people, I’ve had a bad boss at work before. I was, however, also extremely fortunate to have a few great bosses. One of those was Will Thorp, and lucky for me, he was also one of my first bosses. But he was more than that. Will was kind enough to give me a shot as a bus boy at the Rundown Cafe when I was 14 or 15 years old. I am certain it was before I was 16, because I rode my bike to work my first day. Which was a lunch shift. During the summer. By the time I reached the restaurant, I had sweat through my brand-new Rundown Cafe t-shirt that I was to wear during my shift. I walked into the dining room, sweating more now from fear than the humidity, and I remember Will looking at my drenched heavy-cotton uniform, smiling and saying something to the effect of “I guess let’s get you another shirt.” We were about to start a busy lunch shift, and Will had other things to do than provide me with a wardrobe change on his dime. He could have easily responded with anger or annoyance, or he could have fired me on the spot, but he saw how nervous and embarrassed I was, and he treated me with kindness instead. And if you knew Will - or even if you ever just met him once - that likely will not surprise you. Will was unceasingly kind. My only prior work experience before Rundown was slinging frozen yogurt at TCBY. I had never worked in a restaurant before, and that showed several times while I worked at the Rundown and usually with Will to witness my shortcomings. But he was always patient and he taught me how to stop, or at least limit, my mishaps. He also taught me how to engage with customers, which, to me, was Will’s superpower. He seemed designed to be a restauranteur, effortlessly welcoming almost every customer, keeping an eye on every table at once to make sure the customers did not need anything, telling stories, and making everyone feel welcome. I will never come close to having the charisma of Will Thorp, but to this day I still use the people skills I started to develop watching Will at work. Like I said, however, Will wasn’t just a boss. Growing up, my mom was single and worked a full-time job. Cooking dinner was one of those things that didn’t always get done despite her tireless efforts. As a result, there was a stretch during middle school when we were grabbing dinner at the Rundown at least once a week. We were there so often, Will would keep milk and cereal in the back for my brother, who was an unusually picky eater at that time. Usually, these were weeknights during the winter, when business was slow, and we had many conversations with Will over dinner. It was like having an entertaining guest or uncle over for supper once a week. And on top of the great stories he would tell, Will truly wanted to know about my life. How was I doing in school? Did I have a girlfriend? Where did I want to go to college? I remember being cut from the middle school basketball team my eighth grade year. I had worked so hard to make the team, and I was devastated. We went to the Rundown for dinner that night, and Will consoled me. I thought he was going to go to the school the next day and fight someone to get me on the team. But more importantly, he made me realize that moment was not the end of the world, and that I had other great things to look forward to even though it didn’t feel like it at the time. There was also the night that Will showed up in urgent care after I got picked up by an ambulance. I had been in an accident riding my bicycle, and Will found out and just came to see if he could help. So Will wasn’t just a boss or a nice guy who seated us before we ordered jerk chicken. He was a friend and in so many ways a role model. Like many other great role models I have been lucky enough to have, Will showed me how to be a good person, emphasized a good education, and showed me what work ethic is. And I didn’t appreciate all that enough until recently, as my kids are growing and I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for kids to be surrounded by good role models in addition to their parents. After I moved to California I always tried to stop by High Cotton to say hello to Will (and get some NC barbecue) during my trips home. I loved hearing how happy Will was after he got married and became a father. I enjoyed telling him how things were going for me, and even though we might not have seen each other for more than a year, it was always easy talking to him. The last time I went to High Cotton, I was picking up a to-go order and saw Will, but he was busy with some customers and the restaurant was slammed. I decided not to bother him, thinking I’ll talk to him next time. There won’t be a next time. I won’t get to see Will again. And that makes me sad. And angry. Angry at myself because I never took the time to tell him how much I appreciated his kindness and how it really mattered. I just hope that Will knew it and that I expressed it to him in other ways. I think he did. In the end, the last time I saw Will, he was smiling and taking care of his customers, welcoming them into his restaurant, radiating kindness even from afar. In his element. A great final memory. I wish I had been at that table he was talking to, with my family, getting tips on fatherhood or hearing one last great story. But I am grateful for all the time I did have with him. Thanks, Will, for everything.

Thoughts and prayers for the family. Always enjoyed chatting with Will. His many kindnesses after the death of my brother, David, and friend, Morag, were so thoughtful and special. He is already misses.

What an absolute legend of the outer banks, a rock to this community in the sand. Helen and Sherry I'm am so sorry for your loss. Will touched my life, like many, with his charisma and charm and it will never be forgotten. I could always count on him for advice throughout my life from my beginnings of knowing him eating cereal (fruity pebbles) that he bought and kept behind the bar for me at the original flat top rundown to 20 years later with advice about fatherhood. He was always there for me with a smile when I saw him. He will be missed dearly by all. Legend

Dear Sherry, How very powerful a witness Will has been to living life to the fullest! We are so saddened by the thought of no longer seeing that welcoming smile or hearing a story of a recent adventure. What a joy it has been to know him and you. We celebrate his new life with Christ! I am sorry to be out of town on the 19th. It is such an honor for Charles to be a part of his memorial service. God keep you and Helen in His care and comfort. Della Gill

A great man who will be missed, prayers for his family and so many friends whose life he touched!

Dear Thorp Family, Will will be greatly missed. We are so sorry to hear of his passing. He had a very kind personality, and he never missed an opportunity to greet and chat and make everyone feel welcomed. Prayers for Sherry and Helen and all of his family as you navigate this great loss.

We like so many others will so miss seeing Will and enjoying friendship with him. We spent many happy times at High Cotton and talking with Will. We remember Sherry there and the excitement when Helen was born. Proud dad always ready to show photos of her and as she grew, her time on horseback. We are all better people for having had him in our lives.

Sorry for your loss. He brought so much pleasure to this island. His friendly demeanor and great food made High Cotton special.

Always a kind word with a smile on his face--what a beautiful soul. On behalf of the Jones family, our sincere condolences. I hope that Sherry and Helen will continue to feel the love and support of this community that Will was always such a strong part of.

So sorry to hear about Will. We always come to High Cotton when at the Outer Banks. We were talking about him today. He always has time to talk, kid my husband about being from Winchester and asking did he bring any ammo. Would give us rc cola and moon pies. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He will surely be missed.

I’ve known Will over 30 years enjoyed time at all his restaurants the last several years sometimes he would sit with me while I ate lunch and talk of our shared love of hunting the outdoors our daughters and shotguns he will be missed. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

My condolences to Will’s family on the loss of such a wonderful man. Although I don’t live in OBX, I’m there monthly and rarely missed an opportunity to go by the restaurant to see Will and get some great food. Will was just an incredible person and would come and sit with my family and I, when the seating area was open, and share stories of his family, especially his beloved daughter Helen. And over the last few years, no matter how busy the restaurant was, Will always had time to chat. For years I felt as if I knew the family through Will’s stories although I didn’t meet Helen until a couple years ago at the restaurant. He couldn’t have been prouder of her accomplishments. And Will always listened intently as I shared stories of my family as well. I’m certain my interaction and experience is like many others because he just had such a loving and compassionate way about him. We’re going to miss him…he was truly one of a kind.

Our entire family - the Talbott’s and the Wright’s-loved Will! We will miss seeing him at High Cotton 😊

We want to offer our sincere condolences. We knew Will for over 30 years. He was a good and relidable friend. We were very happy for him when he married Sherry and then added Helen to the family. That changed his whole life for the better. We will miss seeing him. He gave a lot more than he got. The world would be a better place with more Wills.

I remember Will from high school so many decades ago. He was incredibly kind and fun to be around. He moved to OBX and became longtime friends with my recently deceased cousin. He and Will passed mere months apart. I was glad to hear Will married and had a daughter. I wish his family deepest condolences.

Just found out about Will"s passing. He was such a friendly man and I enjoyed delivering pigs to him when He needed them Margaret Stallings

Wil was a kind friend. He adored his daughter and their trips hunting, horseback, etc. He is greatly missed. Lisa Ray, Ray Farms

Our family was so saddened to read this about Will. We have enjoyed the OBX for vacation the past 38 years, even did our Honeymoon here and every year we have made High Cotton a must stop and see Will, I always enjoyed catching up with him. Our condolences and blessings to your family, but know that we will still be loyal patrons for High Cotton and enjoy fond memories of Will while there.