Charles Willard

Charles Lester Willard passed away peacefully Monday October 17th 2022 at the age of 79 after battling pneumonia and lung cancer. He was born July 15th 1943 in Bethel Oklahoma to Elliot and Neza Tucker Willard. He was predeceased in death by his father Elliot Willard, his mother Neza Tucker Willard, his granddaughter Brittany Thompson, his daughter Jennifer Willard Thompson and his daughter Michelle Willard Kane. He is survived by his son Jeff Willard, his sister Kathy Willard Bessey. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Briana Willard Hollis, Maci Martin Welch, Davielle Martin Pierce, Nathan Kane, Chelsey Thompson, Megan Thompson Hays, and Steven Thompson. His great-grandchildren Avery Hollis, Leona Welch, Olivia Welch, Dylan Preston and Rowan Hays as well as countless friends. He was a graduate of Longview High School. He married Lauwana Wails and together they had 3 children. He later went to work for Winston/ Royal Guard as inside sales manager. He retired in 2021 after 40 plus years. He was a Cowboys and Rangers fan. He loved to sing and was lead singer in a local country western band Wind river for many years and they played at local venues all across East Texas. He even performed many times at the Reo Palm Isle. He was a simple man and he loved his family. He was always available to help if anyone was in need. His wishes were to keep his funeral arrangements simple. He did not want a visitation and he wanted cremation and his wishes are being honored. Thank you all for the outpouring of prayers and well wishes.

A memorial service for Charles will be held Monday, October 24, 2022 at 1:00 PM at Lakeview Funeral Home, 5000 West Harrison Road, Longview, Texas 75604.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lakeviewfh.com for the Willard family.