Dorothy Frances Willard

Dorothy Frances Willard passed away in the comfort of her home on August 3, 2020. She was born on April 10, 1929 to Claire F. and Ona (Everts) Smalley in Waurika, Ok. and is preceded in death by her husband David Andrew Willard, Jr., daughter Catherine and grandson Andrew. She is survived by her sister Ona Jo Smith (Harold) of Guthrie, Ok, children Franci Willard, Dru McClellan (Steve), David Willard (Brandie), grandchildren Devon James (Sean Scrutchins), Rusty, Chanler, Hunter, Drake, Shea, Max, Cameron, Jax, great grandson Liam and nieces Deborah, Angela, Clair, Sherri, Jodi and nephew David.

Dorothy never met a stranger. She would strike up a conversation with anyone she was standing near and make them feel like they were among close friends. She was as ornery as her father with the grace of her mother. Growing up, Dorothy enjoyed being active in her church and school including debate, social functions, cheerleading and community involvement. She attended Phillips University and Oklahoma A&M (OSU) where she was on the rifle team and involved in various social clubs.

Dorothy met her husband David in the 8th grade while they were attending church camp then were reacquainted in college. They married in Duncan, OK on August 24, 1950 and moved to Stillwater, OK in 1957, While being a housewife and mother, she involved herself in leadership roles in Girl Scouts and PTA. She was a member of the Stillwater Junior League and Welcome Wagon and won blue & red ribbons at the Payne county fair for her wild plum jelly and other baked goods. The family moved to Tulsa, OK on August 29, 1969, living in the same home for the next 51 years. When her children were older, she went to work at Ozark Mountain Smokehouse and retired from the Tulsa Teachers Credit Union after 15 years in Member Services.

Dorothy had a full life and was fortunate to have been able to experience almost everything she ever wanted to do which included seeing her grandchildren grow up, enjoying 6 wonderful years with her great grandchild, traveling throughout the U.S., riding in a hot air balloon and cruises to Spain, Russia, Europe, Canada and the Caribbean. She loved the theatre and music and especially enjoyed singing along (and embarrassing her companions).

She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter. In death she is reunited with the loved ones she has missed so much. Free to sing at the top of her lungs without being told to hush. Running through the fields with her beloved grandfather “Boy” and dancing the jitterbug with her father. Her ready smile, twinkling eyes and contagious laughter will be missed.