David Willey, a seasoned journalist who spent over 50 years with the BBC, has died at the age of 93. Based primarily in Rome, he gained global recognition as a leading Vatican correspondent, observing and reporting on the leadership of five different popes throughout his illustrious career.
His work took him across the globe, with reporting stints in Algeria, Vietnam, and China. Willey initially entered the industry as a Reuters trainee, notably covering the 1957 signing of the Treaty of Rome, which laid the foundation for the European Union. Over the decades, his expertise and commitment to journalism earned him an OBE. Even in his nineties, he continued to contribute insightful analysis regarding the evolution of the Vatican.
Colleagues have praised his deep knowledge and willingness to mentor younger reporters. His career included documenting historic events, such as the 1981 assassination attempt against John Paul II, and authoring a book on the impact of Pope Francis. David Willey passed away in Italy, the nation he had long considered his home, following heart failure.
