Roger Lawrence Willey, 72, of Silverton, Oregon passed away peacefully at home in his favorite chair Saturday on March 2, 2024. He was surrounded by his wife of 48 years, his three grown children, two grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Roger was born Jan. 1, 1952 in Macomb, Illinois to Russell L. and Elizabeth F. (Peterson) Willey. After he turned 18, he joined the Army in 1970, and served in Vietnam until his release in 1974. After serving his country, he met the love of his life, Darla Beth, and her three young children. They were married in 1976. They built a good life together.
He loved working on cars and around the home. He was a truck driver, mechanic and steel worker, but the job was a means to an end – family time… He loved his family and they loved him. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.
He enjoined watching football, NASCAR, barbecues and watching his grandchildren and great grandchildren play.
Few knew he was a published poet, a soft spoken man with things to say. He had a smile that warmed the heart and would brighten the day of his friends and family.
He is survived by his wife and best friend of 50 years, Darla Beth; his two daughters, Elizabeth (Ivan) Moore of Silverton and Angela Sands of Silverton; son, David Hubbard of Portland; five grandchildren Tara (Chris) Johnson of Silverton, Jeremi (Christina) Moore of North Dakota, Joshua Moore of Woodburn, Devon (Ashley) Goodman of Silverton, Lannie Goodman-Wentz of Silverton; 14 great grandchildren; his brother, Russell Willey of Illinois and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lulu Belle Holland; and brother, Lee Willey.
Interment was held March 14 in Portland, Oregon at the Willamette National Cemetery.
The family would like to thank the caregivers and staff of Brighton Hospice for their care and kindness.The family would also like to thank Unger Funeral Chapel for helping with the arrangements.
