William "Billy Wise" Weinblatt

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William Bennett Weinblatt, lovingly known to his community as Billy Wise, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was 63 years old. Billy was a beloved son, a devoted husband, and a loving father.

Born in the Bronx to Joel and Fran Weinblatt, Billy was the oldest of two children and grew up in Eastchester alongside his sister, Mindy. He attended Eastchester schools before studying art at a community college in upstate New York. While he once dreamed of becoming a cartoonist, under his father’s guidance he joined the family business—Wise Hardware in Pelham—which he proudly ran for more than 41 years.

During his college years, while working at Tuckahoe Paint and Glass, Billy met the love of his life, Nicole Diffenthaller. He wisely hired her at the store before asking her out, and the two went on to build a life together as true partners in love and business. Married at the Kittle House in Chappaqua, they first lived in Yonkers before settling in Eastchester, where they raised their two daughters, Samantha and Brittany. A devoted father, Billy never missed a game, recital, or field trip, and he was always the first to volunteer. Through his example, he taught his daughters the values of dedication, kindness, and practical life skills.

To call Billy an outdoorsman hardly captures his spirit. He loved archery, hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, quadding, and any excuse to spend time outside. He also cherished quieter moments—sitting with friends on the porch with a backwoods cigar and a glass of bourbon or tequila. Many also knew Billy for his culinary talents; he delighted in cooking for others, ensuring no one ever left his table hungry. One of Billy’s greatest joys was becoming a grandfather to Baby Julia this past spring.

Those who knew Billy will remember him as loyal, funny, wise, and strong—a man of great character, generosity, and heart. At Wise Hardware, he didn’t just sell tools; he shared advice, solutions, and his time. Whether with family, friends, or customers, Billy was always ready to lend a helping hand.

Billy is survived by his wife of 35 years, Nicole; his daughters, Samantha (Angelo) Scialabba and Brittany (Mike Ibarra) Weinblatt; his granddaughter, Julia; his mother, Fran Weinblatt; and his sister, Mindy (Gregory) Steck. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, extended family, countless friends, and the many loyal customers who became part of his story. Billy was predeceased by his father, Joel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Billy’s memory to the Leukemia Research Foundation (www.leukemiarf.org) or the Westchester BLUE Foundation (www.westchesterBLUE.org).