Jersey City, New Jersey
One Who Spoke His Mind
John Charles Willett was the youngest county treasurer in the history of Missouri. Mr. Willett, fresh out of college, was appointed in 1993 by the governor to mind the finances of Taney County.
The county is almost all Republican, and when young Mr. Willett, a Democrat, asked prosecutors to investigate the Republican county clerk and tax collector, his political fate was sealed (though the clerk and collector also lost their bids for re- election). Mr. Willett returned to school and got a master's degree. In January, he began working at Cantor Fitzgerald.
Mr. Willett, 29, lived in Jersey City and called his parents three times a week, said his father, Ron Willett. One of Ron Willett's favorite memories came from the heady days when his son was Treasurer Willett.
"I was standing on the courthouse lawn with him one day," the elder Willett recalled, "and a citizen recognized him as working for the county. The man came up to him and just laid into him unmercifully. John listened very patiently, and then asked the man, `Did you vote?' The guy said no, and John said, `Then I don't want to hear it' and turned and walked away. I felt like I was about 10 feet tall."
We send our continued condolences to your family for the loss of your dear son John. Words will never remove the pain of such a great loss. Each day may God give the needed strength to cope. He will be missed by others and will always be fondly thought of.
Kindred Family
November 01, 2018
I dreamt of you a couple of nights ago and then I realized the anniversary is coming up. Even though it's been many years, the pain of your passing still feels raw. I miss you each and every day. I regret I never got to tell you in person, thank you for being my rock, my guide, my wonderful honest funny sarcastic friend. There will never be another one like you. Miss you forever.
Diane Ong
August 23, 2018 | Virginia Beach, VA | Friend
Forever Young 9-11-16
Yesterday was a crazy blue sky not a 9-11 sky but close it was windier the ceremony was more family reunion now the faces year after year the children growing up and an amazing woman sang " forever young " which made me cry. i haven't really seen the ceremony on TV for number of years because I teach so it meant a lot to see it and remember all those we loved, all those we lost....and renew our vow to never forget.
Rebecca K
September 12, 2016 | Nyc, NY
I'm still here fighting the good fight every day and I know if you were here you'd be right in the thick of it. Nancy Macdonald Jordan, Houston, TX
September 11, 2016
i cried yesterday remembering it all again. know you have never left our thoughts.....you made a difference and are still missed.
Rebecca Kreinen
September 12, 2015 | New York City, NY
Remembering John today. I hope Ron and Lucy are well. God Bless.
Nancy Macdonald Jordan, Houston, TX [email protected]
September 11, 2015
As I celebrate a birthday on the 10th, I always pause and remember my brother was taken the next day and I feel sad. But a picture and memory brings you back to mind. Hope you are watching down on all your family.
September 11, 2013
John, You were in my thoughts again today & I included your family in my prayers. I will always remember your smile & how you would make me laugh while working together. You were a good-hearted person that touched many lives. You were always concerned for other people. Thank you for touching my life.
Monica Braden
September 11, 2013 | Forsyth, MO
Dear John Charles,
On this day I say a special prayer for Peace in your memory. I pray for your mom and dad,Ron and Lucy. They are aging now but hold you constantly in their love. They are still so proud of you. May the Heavenly Father bless you in your Higher Work and may you help to watch over your mom & dad while they remain here.
Love, your cousin Cindy
Cindy Stone
September 11, 2013 | Columbia, MO
