Herbert Wills

Herbert Wills

Herbert Brumley Wills, age 93, of the Houston Valley Community, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living.

He was known for his knowledge, love and appreciation of the mountains. He enjoyed time spent in nature, in his garden, or on his farm. An avid outdoorsman, he was a skilled hunter, fisherman, and hiker. He was a gifted storyteller. His stories of the past, friends and family, and his growing up were delightful. He was known for his patience, quiet strength, and solid faith. He was a fountain of knowledge in many areas.

Herbert worked at Magnavox for 45+ years. He was a lifelong farmer. A member of Pine Springs Baptist Church where he served as deacon, trustee, and former Sunday School teacher.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Jessie Wills; his wife, Billie Tarlton Wills; a daughter, Reta Wills Taylor; two brothers, Walter (Leedola) Wills and Dewey (Gwyndola) Wills; sister, Armenia (Wayland) Tarlton; special in-laws: Cleo Tarlton, Jack Tarlton, Jerry Tarlton and Dorothy (Lucille) and Jim Arrington.

He is survived by two daughters, Barbara Conner and Jean Wills; a sister, Susie Wills; three grandchildren: April Taylor, Harold Lamb, Kristen Conner (Neal) Blair, Ben Conner; and one great grandson, Daniel Blair.

There will be no formal visitation. A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00 am Saturday, July 19, at Pine Springs Cemetery. Friends are asked to meet at the cemetery at 10:45 am for the graveside service. The Rev. Bo Ragon and Rev. Gerald Tarlton will officiate.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Brookdale for their loving and compassionate care, Karen Penley, Donna Gray, Brooklyn, Lora, Danielle, Ashley, and Clara. Thanks also to Bo and Denise Ragon, Tommy and Sandra Collins, Cindy Cutshall, Emily Yates and Greeneville Internal Medical, Holly with UT Hospice, Bryant and Jackie Boles, and George Adams.

Kiser-Rose Hill Funeral Home is in charge of the funeral arrangements.