Jacob D. Willard

Jacob D. Willard, age 83 of Roanoke passed away Monday, April 25, 2011. Jacob was preceded in death by the love of his life, Glenna (Fennie) R. Willard; his parents, Rufus and Verter B. Willard; brother, Walter L. Willard; sisters, Pearl W. Bernard, Viola W. Stanley, Arnie W. West and Dora W. Holland. Jacob is survived by his sisters, Zelda W. Robertson, Elsie W. Powell (Ira), Doris W. Smith (Richard), Eddie W. Smith (Jimmy) who loved and cared for him; two brothers-in-law, Carless Robertson and Larry Robertson; many nieces and nephews who honor him and loved him dearly. Jacob was born in Franklin County, April 12, 1928. He retired from Norfolk Southern after three decades of service. He was a man of honor who loved the Lord and his country. He served in the Army as a Corporal during the Korean War and received three bronze stars and many other awards. He cut the service boys hair and entertained the soldiers as a member of the “Harmony Hayloft Boys” band. Jacob loved singing in the choir and was a deacon at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in Roanoke. God blessed him with many talents. He loved country music and made several gospel records. He restored antique cars, built furniture and built a house by himself on Smith Mountain Lake. Thanks to all the great nurses and staff at Runk & Pratt Senior Living Communities at Smith Mountain Lake – may God bless you all. The family would also like to thank the nurses and staff at Carilion Franklin Memorial and Roanoke Memorial Hospitals, and Gentle Shepherd Hospice for the wonderful love and caring for Jacob. Funeral services will be conducted from Flora Funeral Chapel 2 p.m. Thursday with Pastor Melvin Harris and Minister Steve Pasley officiating. Interment will follow in Franklin Memorial Park. His family will receive friends 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.