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In memoriam: The Hon. William T. Quillen

8/22/2016

Delaware Law School expresses condolences to the family of the Hon. William T. Quillen, who passed away suddenly and peacefully over the weekend. Quillen was a distinguished judge in residence at the law school. He had taught ethics and constitutional law as an adjunct professor and he maintained a research office in the law library, where he was working on a book project.

Quillen’s outstanding legal career included time in the JAG Corps of the U.S. Air Force, private practice, counsel to Delaware Gov. Charles Terry, Delaware secretary of state and more. He had a lengthy history of working for and supporting numerous nonprofits. He served as a judge on each of Delaware’s major courts – including the Delaware Supreme Court – and was known to most as “judge.”

Quillen had a passion for politics and once ran for Delaware governor – the same office his son-in-law, U.S. Rep. John Carney, is now seeking. He had two daughters and three grandchildren.

In his obituary, Quillen’s family noted that among those he was most grateful for were the “students, and young lawyers to whom he was able to offer guidance.” They also added special thanks to the “presidents and law deans of Widener University.”

Quillen’s state portrait hangs in the law library. It has been on loan to the school under an agreement that calls for it to be moved to a Delaware courthouse upon his death. Law Dean Rodney Smolla said the law school community is profoundly saddened by Quillen’s passing.

“He was a great friend to Delaware Law School and an outstanding role model of public service and leadership,” Smolla said. “He touched the lives of so many of our students and played an important role in their legal education. He was part of our family and we will miss his presence on our campus.”

Quillen’s full obituary is available here.