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Where Does the Willes Surname Come From?

Bearers of the name Willes share their surname's story with Willis, of which it is a variant. Taken at its root, Willes points to β€œSon of Will (William)”.

  • Only a small detail separates the spellings: Willes has β€œe” where Willis has β€œi”.
  • Related forms: Wills and Wyllis.
  • Spellings drifted because names were written down by ear in parish books, tax rolls and passenger lists.

Family crest and blazon

Heraldry is personal: arms associated with the Willis surname were borne by specific families, and sharing the name does not mean sharing the blazon. For the full story, order the Willes surname pack.