Meet the Man Behind the Melodic Drive-Thru Experience in Hamilton Township
The voice coming out of the speaker at a fast food drive-thru usually isn’t something you’d remember, unless you’ve been to the Wendy’s in Hamilton Township, New Jersey. Here, for the past 22 years, a man named Willie Mckoy has turned the mundane task of ordering food into a memorable experience, one song at a time.
If you’ve ever pulled up to the Wendy’s drive-thru on Route 33, you know the voice. Willie Mckoy, a lifelong Trenton resident, has been delighting customers with his melodic greetings and cheerful tunes since 2000. With every order of a cheeseburger, fries, and frosty, he adds a touch of joy that keeps people coming back for more.
“It’s just natural,” Willie explains. “It comes natural. You treat customers right and they’ll come back. Make everybody smile, that’s right. Treat people the way you want to be treated.”
Willie’s journey at Wendy’s started in 1998. Two years later, management recognized his unique gift and gave him a headset, placing him in the drive-thru window. Since then, his singing has become a beloved feature of the Hamilton Township Wendy’s experience.
“He just brings a smile to everyone that comes to Wendy’s, and he brings a smile to his coworkers,” says his wife, Connor Wolfe. “It’s a good attitude to be around. It’s positive.”
This morning, I was surprised to see a story about Willie on News 12 New Jersey. I thought I was one of the lucky few who got to enjoy his serenades with my meal. Turns out, I’m not alone. Willie has become something of a local celebrity, with fans even creating a Facebook page to share videos of their memorable drive-thru visits.
If you’ve never had the pleasure of experiencing Willie’s musical magic, you’re in for a treat. Picture this: you pull up to the drive-thru, and instead of the usual monotone greeting, you hear Willie’s vibrant voice. He asks for your order, checks if you need any sauces or sodas, and confirms your meal—all while singing. It’s unexpected, delightful, and guaranteed to make you smile.
Willie’s philosophy is simple yet profound. “It’s just natural,” he told News 12 New Jersey. “You treat customers right and they’ll come back. Make everybody smile, that’s right. Treat people the way you want to be treated.” His positive attitude and genuine care for others shine through in every interaction.
In a world where fast food experiences are often impersonal and hurried, Willie Mckoy stands out. He reminds us of the power of kindness and the impact a small gesture can have on someone’s day. We could all use a little more Willie Mckoy in our lives.
So, next time you’re on Route 33 in Hamilton Township, swing by Wendy’s and let Willie’s sweet tunes brighten your day. I know I will. Thank you, Willie, for always making us smile.
Here’s to many more years of musical magic at the Wendy’s drive-thru. See you soon, Willie!
Sources:
- https://x.com/njdotcom/status/1367837304295919616
- https://newjersey.news12.com/hamilton-township-wendy-s-drive-thru-worker-sings-through-headset-making-visits-memorable-for-22-years
- https://wpst.com/trenton-man-bringing-smiles-to-wendys-customers-for-over-20-years/
- https://www.foxnews.com/food-drink/wendys-drive-thru-employee-2-decades
- https://youtu.be/oi6onbEwT54?si=qzEH10jNf57rl_jD
- https://chatgpt.com/
- https://readloud.net/
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