Obituaries

Ethan Wayne Willard, 12, of Martinsville, Virginia, transitioned to his heavenly home Saturday, October 4, 2025. He was born August 25, 2013, in Eden, North Carolina, to David Lee Willard and Kaleigh Elizabeth Scott Willard.

He was preceded in death by his maternal great grandmother, Audrey Elizabeth Nester; and paternal great grandfather, Franklin Haywood Epperson.

“Love Like E.”

Ethan was a bright light to everyone who had the blessing of knowing him. His smile was truly contagious; the kind that could light up any room and lift the spirits of everyone around him. Creative, funny, and always ready with a joke or laugh, he had a special way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. In Ethan’s eyes, there was truly no one left behind.

He was a devoted son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend and his love for others shined in everything he did. Ethan was also an exceptional athlete who gave his all on and off the field. He proudly played with Virginia Valor, Legacy Basketball, Ducks Football, Hall Hammerheads, and Laurel Park Baseball and Football. His natural talent, determination, and team spirit inspired those who played alongside him.

Ethan was not only athletic but also a stellar student; gifted, intelligent, and full of curiosity about the world. His laughter was contagious, his kindness unforgettable, and his heart immeasurable.

Though his time here was far too short, Ethan’s impact will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him. If there’s one thing he would want to leave behind, it’s this simple message: Love like E.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brothers, Hunter Willard, Westyn Willard, and Corbin Willard; maternal grandparents, Lori Nowlin (Mitch) and David Scott (Pamela); paternal grandparents, Timothy “Tim” Willard, Sr. and Kim Willard; aunts, Candice Willard (Tee Fulcher) and Brianna Stone (Daniel); uncles, Timothy “Tim” Willard, Jr. (Sarah) and Justin Scott; cousins, Lillian Scott, Ezra Scott, Maddie Brown, Gracie Brown, Waylon Willard, Haddie Bee Willard, Elliana Stone, and Isaac Stone; and a host of extended family and friends.

The funeral will be held Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM, at First Baptist Church of Collinsville, 3339 Virginia Ave, Collinsville, VA 24078, with pastors Curt Ashley and Brandon Johnson officiating. A visitation will be held Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Collinsville, 3339 Virginia Ave, Collinsville, VA 24078. Interment will be private.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.