James Willard

James E Willard entered this world on August 6, 1941 to Leon and Katie Willard, who preceded him in death. He went home on the wings of angels on November 1, 2020, where he was  embraced and welcomed by those who went before him. He was born in a one room house with a dirt floor in Duncan, Oklahoma. He went to Tucker school outside of Duncan before he joined the navy. James joined the Navy on September 19, 1960 during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged on September 18, 1964. After the navy, James started his career as a concrete layer and truck driver with Stokes in Duncan. He loved his job and took great pride in the work he did for over 35 years. A few of the places that he proudly laid concrete were: Duncan Plaza, DJH parking lot, DHS parking lot, Simmons Center and its playground, to name a few. He also laid many driveways, patios and country bridges in the surrounding areas before retiring. James has been a 7th day Adventist for over 29 years where he remembered how much he loved Jesus and the Word of God. He loved his church community and the friends that he made over the years. James was a proud rider with the Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry. He loved riding his Spider trike, which he also rode to spread the word of God. He absolutely loved Waurika and he a had a passion for fishing. He took full advantage of Waurika Lake for its excellent fishing and outdoor activities. His 3 great loves were Marilyn, Pat and Elizabeth, who all preceded him in death. He is survived by his 5 children- Sherri(Dan) Hurst, Terri(Doug) Stewart,  Penny Watkins Pratt, Dodi Ullery and David(Laura) Willard. 18 grandchildren- Misty(Pat), Steven(Amanda), Chelsea(Zack), Tanya(Ben), Luke, Ben, Ashley, Sherilyn, Amanda, Thaddeus, Shelby, Dale, Mallory, Natalie, Chelsea, Jacob, Sean and Chance. And 20 great grandchildren He is also survived by his 2 younger brothers-Ricky(Lori) and Clifford(Dorothy) and their families. James also has many grand furbabies that he loved dearly. He absolutely loved all of his family and was a proud father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and uncle. His final resting place will be next to Elizabeth at Waurika Cemetery, Waurika, Oklahoma. There will be no funeral as per James' request. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: The Wounded Warrior Project PO BOX 758516 Topeka, Kansas 66675 In honor of James E. Willard (please use the address below for the recipient name and address on the form). You can either download and print the form at woundedwarriorproject.org and send a check to the above address or you can donate online using the online form. Any cards and condolences can be sent to: C/O The Willard Family          1008 W Mulberry Duncan, Oklahoma 73533