Dorothy Jean Willard

Dorothy Jean Willard, 86-years-old, graduated to Glory on Saturday, January 19, 2019, at her home at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza, Houston, Texas with her husband Gene by her side. Dorothy was born on August 14, 1932 in San Antonio, Texas to Lem Kenneth Neal and Melba Jane Williamson Neal. She was the oldest of four children including disabled sister Geraldine. After graduating from Burbank High School she married her childhood friend and high school sweetheart Eugene Powell Willard a few months later on his Birthday September 9, 1950. Eleven months later she began her life as a mother with the birth of Vickie Lynn and twenty months later her son Neal.

Known for her ease in frequent conversation with even total strangers, some may be surprised to learn of the extreme shyness of her youth. Yet even as a child, she possessed a determined sense of maturity, contagious smile and an entertaining sense of humor. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet and simple demeanor that won the trust and hearts of many, who even now are being changed by her witness of constant nurturing love and faith. Her signature gift of joy, shown through her constant smiles and positive attitude will never be forgotten.

Married for 68 years, Dorothy and Gene raised their two dear children, Vickie Lynn Willard, born September 6, 1951 and Eugene Neal Willard, born May 29,1953. Possessing a true servant's heart, Dorothy faithfully cared for family and friends. As a committed woman of faith and the heart of the Willard family, Dorothy shaped their spirituality by her tireless Christian example. Her life was the perfect illustration of John 12:2,"If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor. "

As a member of the Northridge Park Baptist Church in San Antonio she served as the church secretary of the Pastor, Brother Spalding and served as a Sunday School teacher, and an active leader in the youth groups, mission trips and retreats, prayer groups and almost every activity serving her family and friends. Dorothy was always committed to everything she did and to everyone that needed her help and prayers. Her prayers were personal and quiet but very evident by their results.

Dorothy was known by many administrators in the North East Independent School District whose careers made a stop at Eisenhower Middle School on the way up to Central office. For twenty-five years she served as a secretary for the assistant Principal and Principal at Eisenhower. She took pride in the "kiddos" as she referred to them and saw the potential in all of them.

With a real zest for life, she became a second mother to friends of Vickie and Neal as well as

sisters-n-law Frances and Madeline Willard who lived with them several years. She was always involved in church and school activities and supported their friends as well. Dorothy loved to travel especially with her grandchildren and to see her great grandchildren grow.

There are many truths and Bible verses that define Dorothy's life but none better than John 17:4 "I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do."

Mrs. Willard is preceded in death by her parents Lem and Melba Neal, her daughter Vickie, sister Geraldine, and infant brother Buddy Ray Neal.

Surviving family includes husband Eugene Powell Willard, son Eugene Neal Willard and wife Cheri, James Wayne Patterson (husband to Vickie), her Grandchildren, Jayme Lynn Patterson Mason and husband Richard, Jim Pat Patterson and wife Danielle Catherine Jayne, Joy Cherise Willard, Jonathan Neal Willard, and Jena Chea Willard; Great Grandchildren Taylor Jaymes and Katherine Elizabeth (Kate) Mason, Rachel Elena, Reagan Leigh and newest Charley Victoria (born 1/25/2019) Patterson, and Liliana Sierra Willard Toliver; and brother Johnny Kenneth Neal and wife Gail, sisters in law Frances Willard Faulkenstein and Madeline Willard Copeland and husband Bill, and Gloria Willard Dodge as well as many neices, nephews, cousins and friends.

Memorial contributions can be made in her honor to your own home church. The family is deeply greatful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support and many heartfelt notes and letters. A special thank you to Pastor Jeff Campbell, Sam and Gwen Craig music ministries, Steve Milam, Peggy Wolfe Blair, the Fairmont Hospice Care of Houston and the amazing family and friends of The Abbey at Westminster Plaza of Houston, Tx.