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Zachary Willaford Obituary
The funeral service will be at 7 p.m. Tuesday evening, July 28, 2009, at Bethany Baptist Church in Richlands with the Rev. Jerry Marshburn and the Rev. Jim McGraw officiating. Entombment will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, 2009, at the Walton Family Cemetery.
Zachary loved his family and friends and we loved him. He attended Bethany Baptist Church.
He is survived by his mother, Tonya Pierce Willaford of the home; his father, Morris Willaford of Jacksonville; maternal grandmother, Joyce Pierce of Richlands; maternal grandfather, Clarence "C.L." Pierce of Wallace; paternal grandmother, Dorothy "Mickey" Mitchell of Jacksonville; paternal grandfather, J.B. Willaford and his wife, Mary Ann, of Goldsboro; great-grandparents; Sherman and Norma Willaford of Richlands; special friend, Ray Peele of Jacksonville; special uncle, Gary Walton of Richlands; uncles Joey Pierce and his wife, Stephanie, of Jacksonville, Kip Willaford and his wife, Leigh, of Richlands, and Wesley Willaford of Maple Hill; special cousin, Chris Pierce and his wife, Kim, and their son, Trent, all of Richlands; cousins, Caroline Pierce and Sydnee Walley, both of Jacksonville, Heather Willaford and Nicole Willaford, both of Richlands, Tyler Willaford and Riley Willaford, both of Maple Hill and Brent McLeroy of Raleigh.
Visitation will follow the services Tuesday evening at Bethany Baptist Church.
Johnson Funeral Home of Richlands is serving the family of Mr. Willaford.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Zachary Willaford
Terri Moss
August 11, 2009
Tonya & Family
My heart aches for you every time I think of your loss. I'm so sorry this happened. No words can express the deep sympathy I feel for you. Keep the faith in God and he will get you through this. Love and prayers to you all!!
Aundrea O'Neal
August 6, 2009
Mickey & Morris,
I am soooo sorry to hear about Zack...Our prayers are with the whole family...I love you and think of you all of the time...
Love Always,
Aundrea O'Neal
Beaufort, NC 28516
Vivian Parker
August 5, 2009
A Mothers Prayer
An emptyness that I now feel,
since you left I love you still.
For you the pictures I have drawn,
but my pain goes on and on.
I miss you now, but your with God
And I know your near.
Listen as I pray at night,
for you will always hear.
If I had one wish come true,
My only wish would be for you.
To hold you in my arms once more,
Tell you I love you, forever and more.
And now my son if I may near,
I'm saying that I love you dear
with all my loving heart,
I'll never forget you,
I loved you from the start.
Tonya and family, Zach was a special person to all that knew him. He will be greatly missed. Your family will always be a part of our family. Our prayers are with you. Please call on us if you need anything. We loved Zach and we love you.
Always, Vivian, Durwood and ashley Parker
Bonnie Gurganus
August 1, 2009
Tonya and Joyce,
Our prayers are for you during your time of sorrow.
Bonnie and Karla Gurganus
July 30, 2009
Tonya and Family,
You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Zack was a fine young man and will truly be missed by all who knew him.
Betty Jones and Family
mary nixon
July 30, 2009
Tonya, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. my prayers are with all the family and friends that knew Zack. may the good lord guide you and protect you through this terrible time again I am so sorry for your loss.
Rhonda Stensel
July 29, 2009
Tonya, you don't know us but we knew Zack. Zack was a great guy & he will be truly missed. Just keep God in your life & he will get you through these rough times. We will keep you in our prayers. Zack will always be in our hearts.
David, Rhonda, Katie Stensel, & Brittany Jarman
Christine Whaley
July 29, 2009
Tonya & Family,
There are no words to really express how sorry we are for your loss. I hope the strength of all the people who love you and their prayers can get you this rough time. That and all the wonderful memories of Zack will continue to keep your heart warm. We are here for ANYTHING you need ANYTIME!
All our love~ Keith & Christine Whaley & Family
Liz Baker
July 29, 2009
Tonya,
I am so sorry for your loss. I simply cannot find the words to express my heartache for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
July 29, 2009
Today's Walk
You will walk slowly through this day;
You leave what is not needed behind from yesterday.
You will treasure all the knowledge to move forward
What You do today will not change or erase the past..
You move on knowing that today you will do differently than before,
If you fail there will be another tomorrow and a future tomorrow for hope..
May God carry you in his hands and help you through this most difficult time and give you strengh to caring on I will pray for you and your family in your time of sorrow may God bless you all... Respectfully, Joyce and Steve
Lawana Moran
July 29, 2009
To The Family,
I am deeply sorry for the lost of your beloved one. I pray that God will keep you strong during this time and always for the pain and sorry you now endure. May God Bless and Keep you Safe.
Lawana Moran & Lisa Moran
July 29, 2009
Tonya,
I am so sorry for your loss. Zack was a great young man! If you need will be in my thoughts and prayers. May God be with you and your family through this loss.
Donna
(Daniel's mom)
Amber Joesting Woodward
July 29, 2009
Tonya,
I remember the day you brought Zachary into dispatch. The two of you were in town and you stopped by work to say hello. I remember a young boy just shy of turning eleven. He was so polite and he had such a beautiful smile that lit up his whole face. I remember the way you looked at him. Such a proud and loving mother. You only had eyes for him.
I can't imagine what you are going through. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jeff & Shelia Parker
July 29, 2009
We are so sorry for your loss. We will be lifting you and your family up in prayer. May you trust in the Lord to get you thru this.
ISAIAH 41-10 Fear not,for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strength you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with MY Righteous right hand.
~May God Bless you all~
Rebekah Formby
July 28, 2009
Tonya,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you are not only in my thoughts and prayers, but all of us here at Camp Lejeune 911. We will continue to pray that God will give you the strength you need.
Respectfully,
Rebekah
Mr. and Mrs. Ray Silance
July 28, 2009
We are sorry for your lost, if there is anything you need let us know.
July 28, 2009
Tonya and family,
you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Charlotte Smith Murray and Gwen Smith Murray
Scott Rowe
July 28, 2009
Tonya and family:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this time. I have always enjoyed talking with Zack evertime I have seen him. He was a fine young man and I will miss him very much.
Your friends,
Scott, Michelle, Caleb, and Mason Rowe
LeAnn Rouse Harris
July 28, 2009
Tonya and family:
Our hearts go out to you all in your time of grief. My family and I are praying for you.
Andrea Thurm
July 28, 2009
Tonya,
My heart breaks for you. I pray that God will lift you up through this tragedy and make you stronger. Lean on God, family and friends and you will get through this over time. I will be praying for you!
Love,
Your cousin, Andrea
July 28, 2009
Tonya, we are so sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful Zack. Please know that you are in our hearts and prayers.
Seem like just yesterday when Zack was a baby.
No words can express the pain that you feel and I just hope that you find confort in your family and friends that hurt for you. Just know that we love and care for you and your family.
Regina, Donnie Worrell and boys
Swansboro Police dept.
July 28, 2009
Our hearts and prayers go out to the family at this most difficult time. W hope the wonderful memories you hvae will help you through this time.
Justin Worthy
July 28, 2009
Zach although we didn't hang out much when we did there was never a dull moment. May god bless the family and help them to get through this hard time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Justin Worthy and Marcia Futrell
Alison Mills
July 27, 2009
Tonya, Just got the news today...so sorry to hear the news. It's so hard to understand when things like this happen. Praying for you and your family.
Mike Morton
July 27, 2009
Zach,
When i need them the most the words seem to leave me. You inspired us all in our lives through yours. The room was always filled with laughter with you there, and untill each of us find our way to the long ride you'll be in my memories. So save me a good seat and i'll see you on the other side brother.
Ann
July 27, 2009
I can remember the day you were born. I have pictures of your mom holding you, with your dark black hair standing straight up. You were a blessing to your family then..... and a blessing to your family now. God Bless you, Tonya and family. You will need the strength of each other more so now, than ever.
Keith and Phyllis Bryan
July 27, 2009
Zach was an outstanding young man, and I'm confident it had a lot to do with the Mother that God blessed him with.
Zach was a child when I first met him, and I'll never forget the laughs we had that day. As I was driving up to Zach's house, I saw Zach in the back yard, and I discreetly put in a set of Billy Bob teeth. When I exited my truck, I "smiled" at Zach, and said,"Hi" at which point his mouth dropped open and he took off into the house to tell his Mom how bad "That man's teeth looked." Tonya had no idea what he was talking about until later, when she asked me what I had pulled on her son. After I removed the bad teeth from my mouth, Zach stuck with me every minute, with his electrician's tool belt on, as "We" repaired his mom's defective electrical receptacles.
Several years later, Zach became a part of the local Fire Department, where he would be able to serve the citizens in his community. Zach asked his Mom to make sure that she shared the news of his accomplishment with me. That meant a lot to me.
Although the total amount of time I spent with Zach over the years was short, that makes it all the more precious to me. Rest in peace, Skeeter.
Tonya, there is no way anyone can know what you're going through, except another Mom that has also lost a child. We don't always understand why things happen the way they do, and trying to figure them out only seems to make matters worse. But I do know this - God will give you the strength to make it through this trying and difficult time, if you will call on Him. God never promised to move every mountain we encounter in life, but he will give us the strength to climb them.
Please call on your family, your friends and most of all, God, during your time of grieving. We all share in your grief, and will help you through this.
We love you, Tonya. Please let us know if there is anything we can do for you. In the mean time, you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers
July 27, 2009
Tonya, Words can not express the sorry I feel for you during this time of loss. Never let go of God and let him guide you through this trying time. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless!
Karen Futrelle, Fountaintown, NC
Janice Salter Hardison
July 27, 2009
Tonya,
I am so sorry for your loss. Nothing anyone can say at a time like this will ease your pain. I just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and your family. I am not sure if you remember me, we went to school together and we have seen each other a few times over the years. I remember when your Zach and my Zach had braces and they went to Dr. White in Holly Ridge. That was the first time that I ever met your son. We joked about our boys having the same name. Please know that alot of prayers are going up for you in this difficult time.
Kathy Swinson
July 27, 2009
Tonya,Joyce and family I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all. Love,Kathy
Wilbur & Mary Rhodes
July 27, 2009
We are so very sorry for your loss. You & your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jeff Daugherty
July 27, 2009
Zach, you will be missed by many. Myself included. You were always cheerful and fun-loving. I'll cherish the memories I have. RIP friend.
Jeff
Debra Watkins-Morton
July 27, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Von Jarman
July 27, 2009
Tonya,
Our hearts are broken over your loss. I don't think any hurt compares to the hurt of losing a child. Our family always loved Zach and will never forget him. In the tough times ahead please lean on your family and friends for comfort. And most importantly call on God as he will comfort you through The Holy Spirit. Vickie and I are available any time to help any way we can. To talk, to listen, whatever you may need.
God Bless,
Von and Vickie Jarman
Alicia Lanier
July 27, 2009
It seems like yesterday Zack was only a little boy,he had grown into such a wonderful young man that was full of life, he always knew how to make me smile. He will be truely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone. If you all need aything please don't hesitate to let me know. I love you all.
April Taylor
July 27, 2009
Tonya,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. It meant alot to our family when you visited us during Gogia's illness and passing. We pray the Lord will comfort you as He has comforted us. We love you.
Daniel James
July 27, 2009
Tonya, I have only recently met you through you purchasing Blinds from Me at Budget Blinds but when i heard of your loss I felt for you and wanted to extend my Love and Sympathy. I know this is a difficult time, however I do know that this too is in the Lords hands. It may seem darker than it has ever been but it is always darkest just before the dawn. I aprreciate the kindness I felt from you in the short time i have known you and wanted you to know that my thoughts and more importantly my prayers are continually on you in this time of need.
Psalms 46:1-4 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the moutains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.
There is a river, The streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, The holy place of the tabernacles of the most High.
Sandy Howard
July 27, 2009
Our prayers are with you all.
Vestal
July 27, 2009
Zack, I hope you know and see how much you will be missed...and how much you meant to everyone..I will always remember you for the bs you talked all the time.. =) It was such a pleasure knowing you. I know you are watching down over your family and friends and I hope you see me in the midst as well...My prayers go out to ALL of those who were extremely close to you..your family, friends, CMP boys and all those who came after our time..to your girlfriend and little girl too....Zack has left our world but will always be in our hearts and by your sides!!! RIP Zack
Sharon Brown
July 27, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Love, Sharon Brown (Leigh's Cousin)
Jill Fahey
July 27, 2009
Zack we had only met one time through Heather who I have known for many years. I remember meeting and feeling the calm sense you had about you and you seemed to be such a lovable and kind gentleman. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family as I lost my sister just 6 months ago, it is always a tragedy when a young life is taken from the ones who love you so much! May the Lord be with your family and loved ones during this time and may you rest in peace with the angels.
~*Jill Fahey*~
Ashley Lewis
July 27, 2009
Zack was a great friend that will always hold a special place in my heart. he always knew how to make me smile, he always lit up a room when he came to work. words will never describe what a pleasure it was knowing him, if you knew him you know what i am talking about. we love you zack, you will never be forgotten
July 27, 2009
Tonya, Our Thought and Prayers are with you and your entire family. Zack was a very handsome young man and you have much to be proud of. If you need anything please just ask. Everyone in the community would love to help. Sincerely, Gary, Barbara, Natalie, Madison & Mallorie Batchelor
July 27, 2009
Tonya, Joyce Ann & Family
You know our hearts go out to you and we pray in time God will grant you comfort and peace to deal with this great loss and this emptiness you have in your heart.
You have a loving close family unit and they will be of comfort to you if you will let them be there for you.
Know we love you.
Mitch & Joyce
July 27, 2009
DEAREST ZACK, OUR HEARTS ARE HEAVY FOR OUR SON JONATHAN (BIG JOHN), YOUR MOM AND THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS. YOU ARE VERY SPECIAL TO JONATHAN AND I'M SORRY YOU CAN'T MEET HIS SPECIAL LITTLE GIRL THAT WILL BE HERE ON THE 28TH OF JULY, BUT YOU WILL BE WITH HIM IN A SPECIAL WAY LOOKING DOWN ON THEM IN HEAVEN. IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY THAT I WAS HAULING JONATHAN TO YOUR HOUSE TO CAMP OUT. TIME GOES SO FAST. YOUR MOM WILL BE IN OUR PRAYERS EACH AND EVERYDAY AND YOU WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER. WE LOVE YOU ZACK AND WILL MISS YOU VERY MUCH.
LOVE JONATHAN (BIG JOHN), EDEN,MEREDITH,BABY MADALYNN, RHONDA & ROGER HUFFMAN
Tonya Meadows
July 27, 2009
There is no way to perfectly express my sadness at the loss of your son. I cannot even imagine how you must be feeling right now, but please know that God knows you can make it through this tribulation. Hold tight to memories for comfort, lean on your friends for strength, and always remember how much you are cared about. My prayers are with you and your family.
Bonnita & Wyatt Hoffman
July 27, 2009
Tonya and Family,
Zach was truly a fine young man and I enjoyed watching him grow up. You did a wonderful job in raising him to be the man he had become. Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Becky Anderson-Stein
July 27, 2009
I went to school with Zach and remember him well. My heart is broken for all of his loved ones, I pray God will help you get through this.
Barbara Cavenaugh
July 27, 2009
Tonya & Family,
I can share in how you are feeling right now. I had the same thing happen in 1983 except my son was taken from us by cancer. Greg was a Richlands boy also. Please remember that Zachary would not want you to grieve but just so much for him as he would not want you to stay upset. Please try to be brave for him. My son would always, for the 2 months we were in Duke try to uplift our spirits. I send you our love and my sister-in-law, Barbara Chaucer who is now in Duke now sends her love.
Donnie & Tonia Watkins
July 27, 2009
Tonya and Family,
Zack was truly a great person! My family thinks the world of yours and we will always be thinking of Zack as he will be forever missed.
Cindy Hewitt Foy
July 27, 2009
Tonya, My heart goes out to you. I am so very sorry for your loss. In a blink of an eye your life changes forever. Gogia was there waiting to welcome him to his lofty home. You will see him again. Please call if you need anything even just to talk.
Kimberly Foy
July 27, 2009
Tonya, I am so sorry for your loss. Just remember that you have so many people that you can call on at anytime & I am one of them that you can call on at anytime. You did a wounderful job raising Zack, he was a very good young man.
Love,
Larry, Kim, Cullen & Kristen Foy
July 27, 2009
We send our deepest sympathy for your loss. I got to meet Zach while i was a subsitute at RHS. He was a good student.My family will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Peter and Cindy Deaver, Richlands
Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Hansley
July 26, 2009
Tonya, Family, and Friends,
Both our thoughts and prayers go out to you. We are sorry for your loss, he is now a angel with the Lord above. We love you very much.
Heidi Weatherington
July 26, 2009
Tonya, I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you and your family. If you need anything no matter what time of day or night please call. I am here if you need me.
Abby Jones
July 26, 2009
When I think of Zack, I remember that beautiful white smile of his, and how he always seemed to be so content with everything in his life. My thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time of need, and I will cherish the memories I had with him forever. Anyone who had the opportunity to know him would say that his "southern gentleman hospitality" could light up any room. He will forever be missed. Love you Zack.
Sarah Anderson
July 26, 2009
Tonya, You and your family are in our prayers. We are so very sorry for your loss.
Love,
RJ, Sarah and Brayden Anderson
Esther Nelson
July 26, 2009
Tonya I am so sorry about what happened and if you need me for anything please call me anytime of the day or night. my prayers are with you.
love Esther
Juli Baker
July 26, 2009
May the Lord be near at this sorrowful time. I pray His love, His word and His presence bring you comfort. Please know that you and your family are in our thought and prayers. God Bless You All. Love, Cecil and Juli Baker
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