Rev Virgil W Willits

The Rev. Virgil W. Willits

The Rev. Virgil W. Willits, 86, passed away Monday (April 21, 2008) at Kansas Christian Home in Newton.

He was born May 10, 1921, in Haverhill to Clyde Walter and Nancy Loretta (Hayes) Willits. They preceded him in death.

On April 2, 1944, he married Virginia Troup at Enid, Okla. She survives of the home.

Virgil was a retired minister for the Disciples of Christ, serving the church for 64 years. He served churches in Nebraska, Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa, Colorado, Indiana and Kansas.

Virgil enjoyed spending time at Harvey County East Lake and doing woodworking and crafts. His passion was for music, especially singing.

He greatly looked forward to spending time with his many friends and loving family.

Other survivors include sons, Bob (Sharon) Willits of Wheeling, W.Va., James L. Willits of Lincoln, Neb., and Richard (Sue) Cairn of Amherst, Mass.; daughter, Nancy (Carl) Helfter of Buffalo, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Maxine Willits of Des Moines, Iowa; brother, Irvin (Marion) Willits of Wichita; sister, Virginia Mae Hodson of Puyallup Wash.; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He also was preceded in death by a brother, Vernon "Dan" Willits.

Funeral service will be at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Kansas Christian Home Chapel, with the Rev. Gary Bell of First Christian Church officiating.

A private burial will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Legion of John Fund at Kansas Christian Home or Nebraskans for Peace in care of Petersen Funeral Home in Newton, which is in charge of arrangements.