Roy Edward Willard

Roy Edward Willard, 74, of Pinnacle, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025. He was born on September 9, 1950, in Surry County to the late Joseph Herman Willard and Clara Johnson Willard. Roy was married to Mickey Ann Midkiff Willard for 54 wonderful years. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he cherished his family and the time spent with them.

Roy worked as a quality technician/operator at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco for 37 years. He was a faithful member of Olive Grove Baptist Church for 49 years, where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, choir member, and in various other roles as needed.  He volunteered with Surry County Meals on Wheels for 10 years. His dedication to his church and community was a reflection of his kind and giving spirit.

Those left to cherish his memory include his loving wife, Mickey Ann Midkiff Willard; sons, Richard A. (Samantha) Willard and Eric B. (Amy) Willard; grandchildren, Mason Willard, Clara Willard, Addie Willard, Kaitlyn Willard, Ian Moretz, Colin Moretz, and Meredith Moretz; and siblings, Johnson Willard, Julia Shelton, Marie Crutchley, Eddie Willard, and Wayne Willard.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jerry Willard and Sammy Willard; father-in-law, Billy Midkiff; mother-in-law, Lillian Midkiff; a sister-in-law, Libby Willard; a brother-in-law, Melvin Shelton; and a nephew, Jason Hall.

Roy found great joy in spending time with family and friends, riding his tractor, gardening, bird hunting, cutting wood, and cheering on the Washington Redskins—win or lose. He also loved watching old Westerns and Tom & Jerry cartoons, bringing laughter and warmth to those around him.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, February 28, 2025, at Olive Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Todd Lusk officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. A private burial will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Olive Grove Baptist Church.

Cox-Needham Funeral Home is respectfully serving the family.

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