of Conway, AR

August 21, 1944 - August 25, 2023

John Raymond Willey, Jr., who was always known as J.R. Willey, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on August 25, 2023 at 79 years young after a brief illness.

Mr. Willey was preceded in death by his father, John R. Willey, Sr. and mother, Edith Willey-Potter; stepfather, Glenn Potter; nephew, Drummer Lambert; sister-in-law, Gladys Vancura, nephew, Barry Vancura; nieces and daughter-in-law, Sherry Willey.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Patricia "Pat" Willey; his sons, Michael (Mary) Willey, Jeremy (Carol) Willey and Jason Willey; grandchildren, Kelcie, Colton, Natalie, Bryce and Carolyn; as well as his sister, Beverly (Bill) Willey Candland; brother-in-law, Al Vancura and nephew, Randy Vancura; many loving nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces and an extended network of friends and family.

After graduating from James A. Garfield High School in Garrettsville, Ohio, J.R. went on to become a licensed Plumber Pipefitter. He would have a long career as a construction superintendent, primarily working on municipal, military and industrial water projects. His final project before retiring was the installation of the Little Rock Trolley system.

After retiring, J.R. only got busier through his love of collecting model trains, gardening and finding his true passion for rescuing animals. Along with his wife, Pat, they have fostered hundreds of dogs who have gone on to loving homes around the country. J.R. also volunteered with other foster organizations, including Conway Animal Shelter, Paws in Prison and the Faulkner County Animal Emergency Response Team. He also rescued a few horses, some cats and almost a goat. His real gift was helping people. J.R. never met a stranger and he leaves this world having touched many lives over the years. He loved people and animals and rarely would leave a stray one in need.

The Willey Family would like to thank everyone who has reached out to offer assistance during this time. We know many of you must feel like you also lost a brother, a father or a grandfather because that's how Dad loved all of you. We are overwhelmed with the many friends of Dad who have shared their fond memories and responded with assistance. We know we shared Dad with all of you and we are so thankful for your continued support as we learn to navigate this world without him. Dad had a wonderful, independent life lived to the fullest and filled with people he loved and who loved him back. J.R. would have hated to make a fuss and would want everyone to "get back to it", so at this time no services are planned. However, he would want all of us to help continue his work. In his memory, we ask you to spay and neuter your pets, support your local animal rescue, foster a dog or merely give your pet a treat from J.R.

Thank you,
Pat, Mike, Jeremy, Jason and Carolyn.

In lieu of flowers, you may donate in J.R.'s name to these causes that were dear to him:

Conway Animal Welfare Shelter Support, https://cawssanimalwelfare.org/

Companions Spay and Neuter Clinic, via Humane Society of Faulkner County- CSNC,
https://www.companionsspayandneuter.com/

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
650 Central Landing Blvd.
Conway, AR  72032
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com