Mr. Gerald Edward Willard, age 80 of Rockwood, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. He was born on August 22, 1945, in Scott County. Mr. Willard was U.S. Marine Corp. veteran. He proudly served and loved his country. He worked for many years with Norfolk Southern before retiring. In his retirement, he found joy in swimming, dancing, and serving within the church at First Baptist Church of Rockwood, where he was a member and served with the kitchen staff on Wednesday nights for community meals. He was also treasurer of the Rockwood Knights of Pythias and Post Commander of the American Legion. He proudly served the veterans of Roane County and surrounding areas as a part of the Roane County Military Memorial Honor Guard, paying tribute to those who were called home. He is preceded in death by his parents: James M Willard & Alice West Willard; wife: Brenda Cook Willard; son: Wayne Willard; and granddaughter: Alice Willard. He is survived by:

Children: Deborah Kay Perry, Angela Brown Sebestyen (Danny), and Eddy Willard

Grandchildren: Ricky Gazaway, Chase Perry, Marin Sebestyen, Coleman Sebestyen, Brandon Willard, Dylan Willard, Sam Willard, and Travis Willard

several great grandchildren

Siblings: Terry Willard (Bronna), Lee Willard (Beverly), Jenni Kelly (Dennis), Jim Willard (Amy), Janice Nieman (Joe), and David Willard (Donna)

along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other extended family members and friends.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 19, 2025, from 11:00am-1:00pm ET at Evans Mortuary in Rockwood. Funeral service will follow at 1:00 with Pastor Drew Stockton officiating. Graveside and interment services will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Rockwood with full military honors presented by the U.S. Marine Corp. Honor Guard and the Roane County Military Memorial Honor Guard. Evans Mortuary is serving the family of Mr. Gerald Edward Willard.