John Edward Wills, of Hopewell, VA, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 17, 2023. He was born on June 18, 1934, in Richmond, VA, and was the oldest child of the late Joseph B. and Rose Cimburke Wills; and was also preceded in death by his loving wife, Mary Wills.
He is survived by two brothers, Bernard Wills (Laura) and Bill Wills; one sister, Phyllis Wehner (Ken); his stepchildren, Lewis Bowen, Jr., Janie Jones (Wayne), Lonnie Bowen, and Fran Higgins (Bill); numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and nieces and nephews.
Johnny faithfully served his country in the United States Air Force for 10 years. While in the Air Force he achieved many great accomplishments and notably, completed a tour during the Korean War. He was a volunteer for over 50 years at the McGuire VA Medical Center in Richmond, VA, and received the Presidential Award for volunteer work. He was a proud member of the Moose Club and American Legion in both Hopewell and Colonial Heights. He was a member of USO, helping to serve active-duty service members and military families, and also served in the National Guard.
Johnny never met a stranger. He could meet anyone, anywhere, and converse with them as if he had known them for many years. He loved to share stories of his own experiences and in turn, hear the stories of others.
The family would like to send their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at McGuire Veteran's Hospital and Hospice.
A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Appomattox Cemetery, in Hopewell. The family is being served by the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Johnny's memory to 1Q Journey's Way at McGuire VA Medical Center. Checks may be addressed to Voluntary Services and mailed to McGuire VA Medical Center, C/O Voluntary Services, 1201 Broad Rock Blvd, Richmond VA, 23249. Please place number '1125' in the memo section of the check as this will ensure your donation goes to Journey's Way. Alternatively, donations to McGuire VA Medical Center can be made online at
www.volunteer.va.gov/apps/volunteernow/
.