William Eugene "Gene" Willard

William Eugene “Gene” Willard, age 63, of Oakland, MS passed from this life Sunday, June 25, 2023 at his residence. He was born May 14, 1960, in Greensboro, NC to the late James Sr and Martha (Greer) Willard.

Being brought up in North Carolina, Gene attended Trinity High school in Trinity NC. After school, Gene went right to work starting with Carolina Container making corrugated products. He then began installing T.V. cable during which time he began learning the trade of being an electrical lineman. Gene then went to work for Interco where applied his knowledge as a lineman inspecting power poles. In 2017, Gene’s health caused him to retire early, and not long after, he moved to Oakland where he could be close to family. After falling in love with the people of Oakland Baptist Church,Gene joined and began serving on the building and grounds committee as well as heading up the security team. Gene is described by his family as being kind-hearted and good with his hands. He is quoted as saying, “There’s nothing I can’t fix”. Gene also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and doing all sorts of gardening.

Visitation is planned for Friday, June 30, 2023, at Oakland Baptist Church from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Funeral Service will follow at 1:00 PM with Bro. Jimmy Hood officiating. Burial will be in Oakland City Cemetery.

Gene is survived by, one sister, Debbie McLeod (Dickey); one brother, James (Brenda) Willard, Jr; his children, Christopher Dunbar, Justin (Amber) Willard, and Denise Willard; two grand children; one nephew, Donnie Chilton (Jenny); and his significant other, Deborah Dunbar.

Gene was preceded in death by both of his parents.