Richard A. Willett, 61, of Falmouth, passed away Monday evening, May 21, 2018, surrounded by his loved ones at Heritage House of Connersville. Richard had suffered from a neurological disease for the past three and a half years.
One of two sons of David A. and Louise Dora Willett, Richard was born on December 28, 1956, in Connersville.
Richard graduated from Connersville High School with the class of 1973 and served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Army. Receiving his honorable discharge in April 1975, Richard then served with the Army National Guard for many years. He then graduated from Ivy Tech Community College, attaining his associate degree in CNC production.
On March 23, 1976, he married Mary Ellen Smith who preceded him in death in February 2000. On July 9, 2005, Richard married Priscilla Jo Warner Noah who survives.
For thirty years, Richard worked as a machinist at Ready Tool & Die in Connersville. He retired in 2015 from Crown Equipment in New Castle due to disability.
Richard is fondly remembered by his many friends as a hard-working, talented, kind and generous man. Richard was very adept at design and repair and, using his talents, helped many people. He served in many ministries at Calvary Baptist Church, and especially enjoyed the Children’s Ministry. Richard enjoyed being outdoors, listening to music, staying busy, and helping others. Many were blessed by his woodworking talents, especially many children for whom he made handmade wooden toys.
Besides his wife of twelve years, Jo Willett, survivors include a son, Benjamin A. (Judi) Willett of Richmond, Indiana; a daughter, Kathleen M. (Rick) Lemen of Ohio; step-children, Maria J. (Matt) Vail of Greenfield, Indiana, Mindy B. (Brian) Kennedy of Connersville, and Michael B. (Emma) Noah of Stephens City, Virginia; grandchildren, Stephanie and Mary Willett, Dmitri and Natasha Noah, Liam and Molly Kennedy, Ethan Vail and his baby brother expected to be born in September 2018; and a brother, David Willett of Muncie, Indiana.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Mary Ellen; and an infant son, Dominic Willett.
Family and friends may call from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 27, 2018, at Calvary Baptist Church, 309 W 24th St, Connersville, Indiana. Reverend Charles Rathel, Reverend Kim McHale, and Pastor John Reynolds will officiate. Private burial with military honors provided by the Fayette County Veterans Council will be conducted in Dale Cemetery at a later date. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Brain Support Network or the Journey to Freedom Fund at Calvary Baptist Church. Online condolences can be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.