The Rev. Virgil W. Willits
The Rev. Virgil W. Willits,
86, passed away Monday (April 21, 2008) at Kansas Christian Home in Newton.
He was born May 10, 1921, in
Haverhill to Clyde Walter and Nancy Loretta (Hayes) Willits. They preceded him
in death.
On April 2, 1944, he married
Virginia Troup at Enid, Okla. She survives of the home.
Virgil was a retired minister
for the Disciples of Christ, serving the church for 64 years. He served
churches in Nebraska, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Colorado, Indiana and Kansas.
Virgil enjoyed spending time
at Harvey County East Lake and doing woodworking and crafts. His passion was
for music, especially singing.
He greatly looked forward to
spending time with his many friends and loving family.
Other survivors include sons,
Bob (Sharon) Willits of Wheeling, W.Va., James L. Willits of Lincoln, Neb., and
Richard (Sue) Cairn of Amherst, Mass.; daughter, Nancy (Carl) Helfter of
Buffalo, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Maxine Willits of Des Moines, Iowa; brother,
Irvin (Marion) Willits of Wichita; sister, Virginia Mae Hodson of Puyallup
Wash.; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death
by a brother, Vernon "Dan" Willits.
Funeral service will be at
1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Kansas Christian Home Chapel, with the Rev. Gary Bell of
First Christian Church officiating.
A private burial will be
held.
Memorial contributions may be
made to the Legion of John Fund at Kansas Christian Home or Nebraskans for
Peace in care of Petersen Funeral Home in Newton, which is in charge of
arrangements.
