Laura Willard

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Laura Elizabeth Willard, born Laura Wolfe on November 6, 1927, in Cameron, Missouri, embraced her final sunset on October 11, 2025, in Webb City, Missouri, her home for 91 years. A loving mother, a thoughtful friend, a spirited community member, and a supportive ally, Laura was the cornerstone of her family and the heart of her community.

Laura's life was a testament to service and love. She married the love of her life, IriDell Willard, on June 20, 1946. Together they built a home filled with love and laughter. A homemaker by profession, Laura was not confined by the walls of her home. Instead, she expanded her nurturing nature to her community. An ordained priest in the Community of Christ, her faith in the goodness of humanity was unshakeable. She extended her support to those who needed it the most, driving people to their doctor's appointments until she was 86 years old.

As a Vocational Home Economics teacher, Laura shared her love for homemaking with many. Her creativity knew no bounds, and her hobbies of interior design and carpentry were a testament to her artistic spirit. She served on the MoKan Girl-Scout Council for 25 years, encouraging young girls to be confident, self-reliant, and compassionate.

Laura's life was a beautiful reflection of Mother Teresa's words, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." She did not aim for grand gestures; instead, she cherished the small acts of kindness that make life beautiful. She was a beacon of hope and strength, a gentle soul whose impact was profound and everlasting.

Preceded in death by her father Ray Wolfe, mother Boethilda Wolfe, and beloved husband of nearly 70 years, IriDell Willard, Laura's spirit will continue to live through the countless lives she touched. She is survived by a daughter, Sherry and her husband, Kenny Thomas of Carthage; a son, Dr. Ray Dell Willard of Galena, KS; a niece, Phylis and her late husband Harold Hoofnagle; a grandson, John Thomas; a granddaughter, Angela and her husband Gerry Pierson; six great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Laura. As we remember her loving nature, let us also remember the love she had for us all. In this way, we can ensure that Laura's legacy of love, thoughtfulness, and service continues to thrive.