Donald Delano Willis, known as “Duck”,, age 79 of Rig, WV went to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 18, 2026 at home, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, quiet strength, and a life well lived.
He was born on December 27, 1946 in Kessel, WV and was the son of the late Vernon Willis and Rosetta (Crites) Willis. In addition to his parents, Donald was preceded in death by one daughter, Rebecca “Becky” Willis; four brothers, Norman Crites, Loren Willis and two infants, Billy and Leo Willis; and one sister, Norma Bogan.
Donald was a man who could turn his hand to just about anything. A lifelong logger and carpenter, he spent many years working with his hands. Whether he was repairing equipment, or building something from the ground up, Donald had a practical mind and a steady hand. He truly was a jack of all trades. Cutting firewood was another task he enjoyed doing. He was a hardworking man in every sense of the word.
Donald was an avid hunter and appreciated the time spent outdoors. He also treasured time with his family. Being with loved ones brought him happiness and he valued the bonds that were built through shared experiences. His work, his faith and love for family shaped the man he was. He was faithful to read his Bible.
Donald is survived by two daughters, Jamie Cook (Mark) of Maysville, WV and Ashley Weasenforth (Clint) of Maysville, WV; one son, Daivd Willis of Rig, WV; three grandchildren, Tori Weasenforth, Jailyn Cook and Fiancé Austin Berg, Marlie Cook (Matthew Hall); one great granddaughter, Brynlee Hall; three sisters, Anna Lee Crites of Petersburg, WV, Shirley Willis of Rig, WV and Sharon Paugh (Lewis) of Baker, WV and numerous nieces and nephews.
Family will receive friends on Friday, October 23, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. at Schaeffer Funeral Home in Petersburg, WV.
Funeral service will begin at 1 p.m. in the chapel with Pastor Lynn Durbin and Pastor Lewis Paugh officiating.
Burial will be in Burgess-Hedrick Cemetery, Maysville, WV.
Online condolences www.schaefferfuneralhome.com
