John Willard

Mr. John R. Willard,90, of Thurmont, Maryland died peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 with loving family members at his bedside.

Born in Foxville, Maryland, on June 20, 1927, he was the son of the late Ora R. and Bertha R. (Toms) Willard.

John served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and was an active member of the Thurmont American Legion and the Thurmont AMVETS. He was part owner of Linganore Contracting Company, and retired from the City of Frederick.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Palma E. (Portner) Willard, to whom he was married for 70 years (in July 2017). In addition to his wife, Mr. Willard is survived by two sons, Richard W. Willard (caregiver), and Terry L. Willard and wife LaSeille; one grandson, Kristofer Willard and wife Crystal; one step-grandson, Bradley Willard and wife Kelly; two great grandchildren, James Willard and David Willard; one great-great niece, Chloe Wiles (whom he thought of as a granddaughter) and her mother Alysia Portner; two step-grandchildren, Nathan Willard and Nicholas Willard; two very special nieces, Tina Connaster and Gina Lauth; one brother, Robert Willard; three sisters, Mildred Hayes, Bernice Harne, and Audrey Wright; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by sisters, Catherine Lucas, Evelyn Barlup, Mary Harrison, and Ruth Harne; and one brother, Charles Willard.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Michelle and Crystal from Hospice of Frederick for their help and kindness.

The family will receive friends at the Stauffer Funeral Home, 104 E. Main St., Thurmont, MD on Tuesday, January 2, 2018 from 6-8PM where a funeral service will be held

Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 11:30AM.

Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice of Frederick Co., 516 Trail Ave., Fredrick, MD 21701.