Gary F. Wills

Gary F. Wills, age 60 has gone to be with the Lord Saturday October 6, 2018.  Gary worked as a surveyor with his dad for several years after high school. In May 1984, he began his career as a firefighter, working as a volunteer for Athens Fire Department. He discovered his life passion and became a full-time firefighter in November 1985. He was promoted to fire engineer in August 1989 and he held that position until he retired in 2015. Gary garnered attention from his family as he regaled them with his stories about the fire-hall. He loved his job and his coworkers. When he wasn't at the fire hall, he assisted his mom with her daycare Toddle Town. He loved the kids, and the children and their parents adored him. Another passion of his was taking in stray animals. His house became a sanctuary for many homeless cats and dogs. He enjoyed the mountains and the ocean, and it was his and Nancy's dream to move to Clearwater, Florida after retirement. 

He was preceded in death by:

• His parents, Dwane and Loretta Ramey,
• Grandparents, Howard and Pearl Stubblefield and Faun and Hazel Ramey;
• His love, Nancy Boney
• His faithful canine friend, Shasta.

Survivors:

• Two Sisters, Kim Wooldridge of Madisonville and Cindy Harwood of Abilene, Kansas
• One brother and sister in law, Faun and Natalie Ramey of Athens
• Nieces and nephews:  Mariah, Isaac, Peytyn and Eli Wooldridge; Luke, Jake and Derek Ramey; John Harwood, Chris Harwood-Seets and Mandy DeDonder
• Aunt: Barbara Valentine of Knoxville.

A memorial service will be 7:00 PM, Monday, October, 2018 in the chapel of Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home with the Dr. Lon Shoopman officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6-7 PM Monday before the service.

In lieu of flower contributions can be made to McMinn Humane Society.

Those unable to attend may send condolences to www.laycockhobbs.com/notices/Gary-Wills

Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.