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BORN
1948
DIED
2023
John Willoughby Obituary
John was born on November 20, 1948 on Martha's Vineyard. He was predeceased by his mother, Louise Kimball; father, John Alva Willoughby, Sr. and sister Ursula. Being born on an island, John very much had a laid back personality. A man of few words he was able to express himself as an author, writer, and prolific poet. As a life master bridge player and president of the bridge club he enjoyed his time playing and teaching the game.
John leaves his family to cherish his memory, including his beloved wife of 37 years, Kathryn Broyles-Willoughby, his daughter Katelyn and son-in-law Ben, daughter Emily, son Sean and daughter-in-law Emilie Rose, sister Bebe and husband Charles, brother-in-law Bruce; grandchildren: Scarlett Mai, Rylie, John (Jack), Rose, and a large extended family.
A celebration of John's life will take place on August 5 from 1:30-4:30pm at the Hartford Bridge Club located at 19A Andover Dr. in West Hartford CT. All are welcome to attend this remembrance.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Hartford Bridge Club, an important and special place for John, to allow them to continue sharing his love of the game with future generations.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Willoughby
Sponsored by the family.
6 Entries
Deborah Stone
July 28, 2024
Hi Kathy! Was just walking past old home and was thinking if you and then this reminder popped up. Hope you and family are adjusting and doing well. Hopefully your new home and grandkids keep you busy.
Fondly,
Debi Stone
Julie Oakes
October 16, 2023
Kathy, Katelyn, Emily & Sean. I was saddened to learn of John's passing. I send each of you my heartfelt condolences for the loss of your husband and father. I will always remember his smile and kindness.
Bruce Di Ruggiero
August 14, 2023
Bruce, Elsa and Willy will always remember John lovingly.
He was a very special man! We all have such wonderful memories.
Sharon Smith
July 29, 2023
So sorry to hear of your loss at John´s passing. I knew him from his poetry which was always engaging. He will be missed on the local poetry scene.
Deborah Stone
July 24, 2023
Dear Kathy and Family.
I was so saddened to read of John´s passing. I had enjoyed seeing you both and chatting on my walks with my dog around the Briarwood neighborhood.
May you be comforted by the memories of all you´ve shared, and by the love of your children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors, old and new.
With our deepest sympathies,
Your Suffield Neighbors
Deborah Stone and family
Jackie Hemond
July 24, 2023
When I was the director of the Kent Memorial Library, John requested that the library start a poetry group. A group formed of about seven people who shared some favorite poems as well as their own creations. John's poems were standouts. Some were funny, irreverent and playful, others serious and thought-provoking. Sadly, the group fell apart when I retired and Covid struck but I will remember John enjoying poetry and the group enjoying John. My condolences.
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