Community Welcomes Beloved Mailman Back After Beating Cancer, 'He's the Mailman of the Century'

Willie Stone is the “mailman of the century” after spending 40 years on the same routes in Henrico County, Virginia. When Willie left his job for 6 months to beat cancer, the whole community got together to show him how much they love and care. He came back from remission to mailbox after mailbox and poster after poster, reading, “Welcome back, Willie!”

Mailman Dubbed Mailman of the Century for Loving His Neighbors for 40 Years

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The long-time mailman loves his job because he loves making connections, and everyone loves him for it.

"He makes you feel like you're not a stranger," one resident said.

His customers consider him “part of the family.”

“He’s the mailman of the century!” one man chuckles. 

"I think that's what the community should be like. We should love each other, take care of each other, and protect each other," Stone said.

Mailman’s Cancer Journey Spurs Community Support

One day, Willie was working when he felt weak and vomited. When he went to the hospital, he got the news that he had a kind of blood cancer: non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Willie got many words of encouragement throughout his tough treatment, so he kept pushing. 

After more than six months away from his route, Stone finally reached remission and rang a ceremonial bell. It was a significant moment for him that he’d been looking forward to. 

Cancer Remission and A Triumphant Return

When he returned to his route, the whole community showed their support. Some people even put out huge letters saying, “Thank you, Willie!” and some stood out on their lawn. 

"They touched me in a way that you can't even put into words," the mailman said, who teared up when he saw all of the support. 

Willie can know with confidence that no matter what happens to him or what he goes through, his community will have his back.

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h/t: WTVR

Featured Image Credit: YouTube/WTVR CBS 6

Michaela Gordoni is an avid reader and part-time globe-trotter. With a bachelor's degree in International Relations and experience in the non-profit world, she has a passion for people and reporting. You can check out her portfolio here.