Willard Richard McWilliams

Willard Richard McWilliams, age 84, of Waynesboro, TN, departed this life on November 16, 2024, surrounded by his family. He was born on December 8, 1939, in Collinwood, TN. He was the son of the late Roy McWilliams and Mamie Dixon McWilliams Haddock.

In his life, Willard experienced the profound joys of love and companionship. He was united in marriage to Peggy Lucille Jackson McWilliams on September 23, 1961, and though she preceded him in death, their memories together continued to illuminate his heart. On January 1, 1996, he found happiness once again when he married Nina Sue Patterson Ledford McWilliams, who also left this world before him. The bonds he formed with both women enriched his life and shaped his legacy.

For 45 dedicated years, Willard made a significant impact at Genesco, where he manufactured boots. His strong work ethic was matched only by his passion for craftsmanship; he lovingly spent his spare time in his shop, creating beautiful cedar chests through woodworking.

Willard’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He attended Calvary Baptist Church with his wife Nina, nurturing his spiritual connection even after her passing, until his health no longer allowed him to continue attending. His devotion to his faith and his family was a testament to the love he shared with those around him.

He his survived by his son, Daniel Richard McWilliams (Jessica) of Iron City, TN; half brothers, Terry Haddock of Collinwood, TN, Mark Wilson of Waynesboro, TN, and Mike Wilson of Waynesboro, TN; grandchildren, Megan Risner(Ken), Chandler McWilliams (Mackenzie), Blake McWilliams (Maranda); grandson-in-law, Shannon Daniel; and great grandchildren, Makaleigh Risner, Levi Risner, Luke Risner, Blakeleigh McWilliams, Glenna Daniel, and Olivia Daniel.

In addition to his parents and wives, Willard is preceded in death by his son, Tracy Lee McWilliams; granddaughter, Hollie McWilliams Daniel; brothers, James McWilliams and Leon McWilliams; baby brother, Richard McWilliams; half brother, Larry Haddock; and half sister, Carolyn Haddock.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm and on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm service time at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Waynesboro, TN.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Waynesboro, TN with Jerry Robbins officiating. Burial will follow in the McCall Cemetery in Collinwood, TN with Shackelford Funeral Directors assisting the family.

Pallbearers will be Chandler McWilliams, Blake McWilliams, Harold McWilliams, Harlan McWilliams, Jeff McWilliams, and Ken Risner.