The deaths of Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts in an apparent murder-suicide at their Wilmington, North Carolina, home have renewed attention to the profound family tragedies they endured years earlier. Long before the events of August 2026, the couple experienced the heartbreaking loss of both of their sons—Zachary “Zack” Grey Willetts in 2013 and Colby Willetts in 2014. Their passing left a lasting impact on family, friends, and the Wilmington community.
Zack Willetts of Wilmington, North Carolina, died on February 2, 2013, at the age of 23. He was an Army National Guard veteran who had served in Afghanistan. Colby Willetts died on March 14, 2014, at age 21 after a lifelong battle with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Their parents, Stephen and Tracey Willetts, later died in an apparent murder-suicide on August 6, 2026, according to investigators.
Who Was Zack Willetts?
Zachary “Zack” Grey Willetts was remembered as a patriotic young man who proudly served his country in the Army National Guard. He volunteered for deployment to Afghanistan, following in the footsteps of his father, retired U.S. Army veteran Stephen Willetts.
Before his military service, Zack excelled in athletics, participating in football, baseball, and lacrosse during high school. He later attended East Carolina University and continued his education at Pitt Community College.
According to his obituary, Zack died on February 2, 2013, at just 23 years old. Publicly available obituary information did not specify a cause of death.
Zack Willetts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zachary “Zack” Grey Willetts |
| Age | 23 |
| Date of Death | February 2, 2013 |
| Residence | Wilmington, North Carolina |
| Military Service | Army National Guard |
| Deployment | Afghanistan |
| Education | East Carolina University; Pitt Community College |
Who Was Colby Willetts?
Just over a year after losing Zack, the Willetts family experienced another devastating loss when Colby Willetts died on March 14, 2014.
Colby had lived with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a progressive genetic disorder that weakens muscles over time. According to his obituary, he passed away peacefully at home with both of his parents by his side.
His obituary described him as gracious, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate. Despite enduring lifelong physical challenges, Colby was remembered for his optimism, humor, and concern for others rather than himself.
Friends and loved ones recalled his remarkable maturity, kindness, and ability to make people feel comfortable through his warm personality.
Colby Willetts at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Colby Willetts |
| Age | 21 |
| Date of Death | March 14, 2014 |
| Cause of Death | Complications from Duchenne muscular dystrophy |
| Residence | Wilmington, North Carolina |
| Memorial Service | Andrews Mortuary, Wilmington |
A Family Marked by Loss
The deaths of Zack and Colby profoundly affected Stephen and Tracey Willetts. Family members and friends have shared that the couple carried the grief of losing both sons for years.
Following news of the couple’s deaths in August 2026, relatives reflected on the unimaginable pain they had endured.
One family member expressed hope that Stephen and Tracey had been reunited with Zack and Colby, while acknowledging the immense sorrow experienced by everyone who knew the family.
Tracey frequently shared photos and memories of her sons on social media, demonstrating the enduring bond she maintained with them long after their passing.
Investigation Into Stephen and Tracey Willetts’ Deaths
Authorities say Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts were found dead inside their Wilmington home after emergency responders were alerted by an automatic fall detection feature on a smartwatch that contacted 911.
Investigators believe the incident was an apparent murder-suicide, though the investigation remains ongoing. Officials have not yet released a final report detailing the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
Legacy of Zack and Colby Willetts
Although their lives were cut tragically short, Zack and Colby continue to be remembered for the different but equally meaningful ways they touched others.
Zack is remembered for his military service, athletic accomplishments, and dedication to his country. Colby is remembered for his resilience, kindness, humility, and unwavering spirit despite living with a serious medical condition.
Their memories remain an important part of the story of the Willetts family and continue to be honored by relatives, friends, and all who knew them.
FAQs
Who was Zack Willetts?
Zack Willetts was a Wilmington, North Carolina, resident, Army National Guard veteran, and Afghanistan veteran who died on February 2, 2013, at age 23.
What was Colby Willetts’ cause of death?
Colby Willetts died on March 14, 2014, after a lifelong battle with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Who were Zack and Colby Willetts’ parents?
They were the sons of Stephen Larnell Willetts and Tracey Parker Willetts of Wilmington, North Carolina.
How are Zack and Colby connected to the 2026 Wilmington tragedy?
Their parents, Stephen and Tracey Willetts, were found dead in an apparent murder-suicide in August 2026. The couple had previously endured the devastating loss of both of their sons in 2013 and 2014.