Robert E. Willard

Robert Edward Willard of Laurel, Maryland, passed away at home on Thursday, April 28, 2022, after fighting a brave battle with lung cancer.  He was 80 years old.  Born May 14, 1941, in Lynchburg, Virginia, he was the eldest son of the late Turman G. Willard and Dolly B. Willard.  Bob grew up in Lynchburg, graduated from E.C. Glass High School, then obtained his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Lynchburg.  After graduation, Bob worked as a Programmer at Babcock and Wilcox in Lynchburg until he retired in 1986.  He then began a second career with Cray Computers as a Sales Analyst from 1986 to 2006, when he retired, again, to devote himself to working with youth programs.

Bob loved helping people and particularly enjoyed working with kids.  He coordinated the Boy Scouts Learn to Shoot with the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission Prince Georges County Shooting Range.  He later became a Level One Certified Sporting Clays Instructor where he continued working with young people and other groups.

Bob was preceded in death by a brother, Donnie Willard, and a daughter, Cindy Willard.  He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carolyn D. Willard, a daughter, Kimberly Wilkerson and her husband Michael, a granddaughter, Haley Fox and her husband T.S., and a grandson, Ian Wilkerson.

Bob was a kind and generous soul who loved his dogs Gabby and Sophie; he was a devoted husband, and loved by all who knew him.

Arrangements are being handled by Donaldson Funeral Home P.A. 313 Talbott Ave., Laurel, Maryland.

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