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Dr. George Fredrick Willard Jr.,72, of Ravenswood, WV passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, on May 20, 2023.
He was born May 28, 1950 in Charleston, WV to the late George Fredrick and Geraldine R. Willard.
Fred is survived by his son George F. Willard III (Kathleen) and their children, Arianna and George IV. He is also survived by a brother, Michael Willard and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his daughter Melinda, his brother Gary, and his wife Kathryn.
Fred was married to his loving wife, Kathryn for 51 years. They were married in South Charleston, WV, on June 24, 1971.
He graduated from Marshall University in Huntington, WV in 1972 with an undergraduate degree in Chemistry and Physics, he then went on to receive his PhD. in Organic Chemistry from Georgia Tech in Atlanta, GA in 1978.
During his distinguished career as a research chemist, he worked for: Owens Corning Fiberglass Technical Center in Granville, OH where he led teams specializing in high temperature, high performance liquid crystal polymers. GE Plastics in Pittsfield, MA focusing on amorphous nylons and their applications. He also ran testing labs in St. Louis, MO and Ypsilanti, MI. and worked for SDR and Star Plastics in Ravenswood, WV. Fred also had a successful independent consulting business before retiring. During his career he was awarded 25 patents.
Fred also taught Chemistry at COTC and OSU in Newark, OH and Franklin College in Indiana. He was an avid and accomplished wood worker and loved working in his woodshop. He was a long-time member of the Blennerhassett Corvette Association. Most recently his passion had turned to restoring and building his 1931 Chevrolet Hot Rod.
His favorite and most rewarding job was being a husband, father, and grandpa. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy. Fred was loved and respected by all who knew him and was a loving son, husband, father, brother, uncle, grandpa, brother-in-law, friend and neighbor. He will be missed dearly.
Per his request there will be no service or funeral.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society. Online memories and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.waybrightfuneralhome.com.
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Waybright Funeral Home

511 S. Church St., Ripley, WV 25271