BYRON — LaVon L. “Tootie” Willey, age 85, passed away on February 1, 2024 at Generations at Neighbors in Byron. She was born on June 27, 1938 in Stillman Valley the daughter of Joe and Agnes (Hoernecke) Cox. She grew up in Stillman Valley and graduated from Stillman Valley High School Class of 1956. She married the love of her life, Norman Willey, on October 5, 1957. She was a member of the Red Brick Church. LaVon worked a few jobs including working in the lunch department at Byron High School for 10 years while her children were in school. But, her main passion was being a mother and grandmother. In her spare time, she enjoyed quilting and playing Mah Jong. She was an avid cup collector and also enjoyed playing cards with her friends for nearly 60 years. She was a sports fanatic especially football and baseball. LaVon was a social butterfly and was always ready to greet everyone with a smile, a kind word, and a hug. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brothers, Clifton, Virgil, and John. She is survived and missed by her sons, David (Su) Willey of Sycamore and Derek (Heather) Willey of Stillman Valley; grandchildren, Jordan Bute, Wade Bute, Paytyn Willey, and Hailey Willey; sisters-in-law, Sandy Cox, Marjorie Vogt, and Mary Willey; neighbor and close friend, Denise; close friends, David and DeeDee Sneed; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 8 at 10:00 AM at The Red Brick Church in Stillman Valley with Pastor David Bogner officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 7 from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Farrell Holland Gale Funeral Home in Byron. Burial will be at Byron Cemetery. Memorials are established for The Red Brick Church. To leave an online condolence please visit www.farrellhollandgale.com
