Hope L. Willard

It is with great sadness that the family of Hope Lucian Willard announces his passing on Friday, May 4, 2018, at the age of 85 years. Hope will be lovingly and forever remembered by his wife of 63 years, Ann and his children, Sue Ann Thompkins (Dennis), Paul Willard (Julie), and Joseph Willard (Ashley). Hope will also be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren; Zachary, Lindsey, Zane, Allison, and Blaine; sisters, Jacqueline Chandler, Billie Johnson; brother, Starlin; sister-in-law Peggy Willard, and by his numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends. Hope was predeceased by his sisters, Claudine, Elva, Bert, Katie, Mary Charles, Fronnie, Lydia and brothers L.D., Walter, Paul, and Yvonne.

A native of North Myrtle Beach, Hope dedicated his life to family never moving away from home, once saying, “I don’t need to see the rest of the world, when I have all I need right here!” Hope founded Willard’s Fireworks in 1960.

An avid outdoorsman, Hope taught everyone he came in contact with the importance of staying active and having a passion that keeps one’s life moving forward.

Hope professed his faith in God, and testified to others because he wanted them to know there is a heavenly place ahead, and he wanted to see everyone there.

A Celebration of Hope’s life will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at Living Water Baptist Church, Little River, with Terry Porter officiating. Visitation is from 1:00PM to 3:00PM with the service starting at 3:00PM. Interment will follow in the family plot at Cedar Creek Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Living Water Baptist Church, 1569 Hwy 9 E, Longs, SC 29568, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or The Gideon’s International, PO Box 140800, Nashville, TN 37214-0800.

A guestbook is available at www.leefhandcrematory.com.

Lee Funeral Home & Crematory of Little River/North Myrtle Beach is serving the family.