John Ed Willoughby

John Ed Willoughby, age 80, died March 25, 2015.He was born on February 3, 1935 in Birmingham Alabama, the son of Lewis Hembry and Anita Dean Willoughby. He graduated from West End High School, where he lettered in four sports and was named to the All-City 1953 Basketball Team. He attended The University of Alabama, and was a member and president of Delta Chi Fraternity. After working in the family business, Willoughby Furniture; John Ed began his radio career by partnering with Tommy Charles for 22 years on the “T.C. and John Ed” morning show and later with Doug Layton. Noted for his quick, sharp and improvisational wit, John Ed was a frequent emcee and after dinner speaker. For many years, John Ed coached youth football, notably the National Champion Cahaba Heights Black Knights. He found great joy in working with young children, encouraging knowledge and interest in athletics. He was a member of Vestavia Hills Methodist Church, Vestavia Country Club, and Old Overton Golf Club. In addition to his parents, John Ed was predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Jean Quinby Willoughby. He is survived by his son, John Edward Willoughby Jr. “J” (fiancé Cyd) sister, Anita “Bit” Taylor (John), beloved granddaughter, Samantha Jean Willoughby, niece, Dean Taylor Cleaveland (Phillip) special friend Jeannie Dunham and loving caregiver, Odessa Brown. Memorial Service for John Ed Willoughby will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2015 at Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends from 9:00 to 11:00 at the church followed by service in the sanctuary at 11:00.The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made The Greater Birmingham Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Ridout's Valley Chapel, Homewood, AL.