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Funeral services for Dana Oscar Willard, Jr. were held at 3 p.m., Monday, September 9, 2024, in the chapel of Hughes & Wright Funeral Home. Rev. Larry Wilbanks officiated the service. Jill Braswell Gibbs, pianist, played for the service. She accompanied Sophie Dowdy and Sadie Dowdy as they sang “How Great Thou Art” and Billy White as he sang “Look for Me At Jesus’ Feet.” Remembrances were given by Peter Willard, Virginia Ray Long, Jerry Dowdy, Kenny White, and Carrie Kochek.

The committal service followed at Sandy Mount Church Cemetery. Acting as pallbearers were: Jared Whitaker, Carl Temporale, Scott Dowdy, Rob Dowdy,

Wilson Kochek, Miles Kochek, Brian Willard, Andy Long, Rich Dowdy, and

Will Cromer. Following remarks by Rev. Wilbanks, Dickie Dowdy and Billy White sang “Holy Ground” acapella. SGT Garcia Martinez and SPC Jorge Toscano of the United States Army provided military honors.

Dana, age 80, peacefully passed away on September 5, 2024, in Atlanta, GA. Born on October 16, 1943, Dana grew up in a family deeply rooted in the funeral service industry, which shaped his lifelong career and passion. He served as a Funeral Director at Lee’s Funeral Home & Crematory in Norcross, GA, for the past 10 years, a role he embraced with compassion and dedication. He had previously worked many years for H. M. Patterson & Son Funeral Home in Atlanta. He was a beacon of light and comfort as he served those in their darkest moments of loss and grief. He was licensed in 1986 in his profession and had served families since then in their lowest moments.

Dana’s early life was marked by his education at Nunda Central School in Nunda, NY, and he furthered his education with an Associate’s Degree from Alfred State College in Alfred, NY. His commitment to service extended beyond his professional life into the military, where he served in the Army from 1966 to 1968, stationed in Berlin, Germany.

Known for his kindness and humor, Dana was a loving husband to Patricia Dowdy Willard, a devoted father to Carrie Elizabeth Kochek, a steadfast father-in-law to Peter Wilson Kochek, and a cherished grandfather to Wilson Michael Kochek and Miles Willard Kochek. He is also survived by his brother, Peter Willard; sister, Virginia Ray Long; and their spouses, Sandy Willard and Larry Long, respectively. Dana was preceded in death by his sister Suzanne Bardo and his parents, Dana Oscar Willard, Sr. and Nancy McDowell Willard.

An avid golfer and passionate supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs, Dana’s interests were deeply intertwined with his love for his family and friends. His presence brought light and laughter to those around him, making lasting friendships and memories.

Contributions in Dana’s memory may be made to The Sandy Mount Cemetery Fund or the Penia Baptist Church Building Fund. Donations can be sent to 431 Williford Crossing Road S., Cordele, GA 31015. Dana’s legacy of kindness, humor, and service will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Online condolences may be left at www.hughesandwright.com. Hughes & Wright Funeral Home, Inc. is entrusted with these arrangements.