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/
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15 Condolence(s)
Anne Potelicki
Monday, December 25, 2023
Very sad to hear of JR’s passing. What a wonderful and fulfilling life he had. Heartfelt condolences to all the family. Many years have passed since we have seen that branch of the family, but the memories and fondness still reside in my heart.
Anne Potelicki ( Cousin to Pat )
R.Tyler
Friday, September 1, 2023
Please except my condolences at this difficult time. I know Mr. Willey will be greatly missed. He always had a smile on his face. He was a very kind and gentle person.
Sherry and John Duggin
Thursday, August 31, 2023
Jason and family,
We are saddened to hear of the loss of your dad. I always loved hearing about Pat and JR when we were at work. I pray that the sadness you are feeling now is soon replaced with sweet memories of your dad.
Michael and Nancy Mitchell
Thursday, August 31, 2023
JR was an amazing man and a great friend. We will sorely miss him. We are praying for his family.
David and Anna Mitchell
Thursday, August 31, 2023
We’ve known JR and Pat for over a decade, and they are the best kind of people! Everyone loved when they showed up at the shelter, and your spirits were lifted while you were in their presence. I was shocked when Pat told me of JR’s passing and for a brief moment I thought she was joking, maybe it was more I hoped she was joking. His presence will forever be missed. No matter how long you know some people, it’s just never long enough!
Susan Shaddox
Thursday, August 31, 2023
You were my Hero...Miss you friendðŸ¶ðŸŒˆ
Chris Quinn
Thursday, August 31, 2023
JR We will all miss you, you were one of the nicest, kindest person I have ever met.
It was an honor to have known you.
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Kaitlyn
Thursday, August 31, 2023
We’ll miss you so very much. Thank you for being a part of my life. Love ya bunches! â¤ï¸ðŸ¤ðŸ’™
Anne Bucher
Thursday, August 31, 2023
You will be missed, Uncle JR. Thinking of you, Pat, and the boys and families. You are in our prayers.
Bev Candland
Thursday, August 31, 2023
My Big Brother. I will miss your sense of humor. I will miss reminiscing about growing up and the funny stories we shared. I will miss reaching out to you when I wanted to share a memory like our childhood phone number or a plaque that hung on the wall at gramma's house. What a wonderful life you lived doing exactly what you loved and including and loving all those around you. RIP Brother You will be missed.
Jolene and Stephen
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
We met JR when we lived in Conway a few short months. He always had a smile and made a person feel welcome. He was a kind gentle soul and will truly be missed. Please accept our condolences during this difficult time.
Amy Cheatwood Johnston
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
My daughter and I met him through rodeo this year and for the love of a horse. Although we did not know him long he touched our lives deeply, in fact as we rode this evening we were talking about how great of a man he was. He will be missed. Our condolences go out to his family.
Geri Schlarbaum
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
Julia lauritzson
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
So sorry for your loss he will be greatly missed prayers
Michael j willey
Wednesday, August 30, 2023
love you pop