Florence L. Willets

Florence Lucille Willets, the daughter of Ray and Iva (Conn) Crittenden, was born September 18, 1924 on a farm near Hopeville, IA in Union County. She was educated in the Thayer schools, graduating with the Class of 1941. Florence also graduated from Creston Community College with a degree in Education. She taught Country School in Union County, for a short time, until she was married. Florence and Everett Willets were married on December 27, 1944 in Troy, Missouri. Four sons were born to bless this union: Larry, Rodney, Jerry and Ted.
Raising her 4 boys and caring for her husband and family was full-time work. She loved being a Homemaker and was active for many years as the leader of the High School Youth at First Christian Church. When her children were raised, Florence worked part time for Greater Community Hospital, in the Gift Shop, for many years. Florence was a long-time member and stayed active in her church by teaching Sunday School. She was a past member of the Greater Community Hospital Auxiliary and the Birthday Pals card club. Never one to be idle, Florence participated for over 30 years in the ladies bowling league and also delivered Meals on Wheels for many years.
Preceding Florence in death was her husband, Everett, in 1984; 2 infant grandsons: Jeremy and Joshua Willets; her daughter-in-law, Teresa Willets; her parents and brother-in-law, John Stephens.
Florence is survived by her 4 sons: Larry Willets of Bedford, Rodney Willets (significant other, Teresa Matheny) also of Bedford, Jerry (wife Tammy) Willets of Creston and Ted (wife Kristine) Willets also of Creston; 8 grandchildren: Chad (wife Wendy) Willets, Casey Willets, Brandie (husband Jeremy) Supinger, Samantha (husband Dustin) Baird, Megan (husband Earl) Griffith, Tabetha (husband J.D.) Schroder, Whitney (husband Andrew) Zellweger and Seth Willets; 14 Great-Grandchildren; her sister, Ruby Stephens of Shannon City, IA; 2 nephews and 4 nieces. Florence will be missed by all who knew and loved her. May God grant comfort and strength to those who mourn.