BARBARA WILLIS

Barbara Moyer Willis, born in Washington, DC, went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Monday, August 18, 2025.

Barbara was the beloved daughter and oldest child of Cornelia G. and James L. Moyer of Staunton, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Stanley Willis, of 50 years; and two siblings, Carol Moyer Gentry and James L. Moyer, Jr.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth B. Willis of Wise, Virginia; two sisters, Rita Moyer Smith of Midlothian and Pamela Moyer Collins of Staunton; along with many much-loved nephews and nieces.

Barbara’s talent and love extended to her lifelong devotion to her church and to her dedication to education. While most of her professional life was spent in Wise County, Virginia, Barbara was well traveled and spent time in other parts of Virginia and the US.

A graduate of Longwood and Radford Universities, she was a Wise County Public School teacher for many, many years before making the professional move to Executive Director of the Southwest Virginia Education Consortium and Foundation where she served for many years prior to retiring. She was also proud of her work with The Anne Carter Robins and Walter R Robins Jr Foundation in partnership with UVA Wise. As a longtime member of the Norton Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Norton, Virgina, Barbara served terms as church board member, as Treasurer, in the women’s ministries, and as a much loved and valued member of the church community.

Barbara, affectionally known as “Mrs. Willis” by her many students remember her as a wonderful teacher with a great sense of humor. Those who worked alongside her in church or at work loved her dearly and her journey was marked by love, fun, compassion, and faith in God. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of family and friends, but we will remember her, not for the way her life ended, but for the way it was lived, and for the profound impact it had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.

The Celebration of Life service to honor the life of Barbara Willis will be held on Friday, September 19, at 2:00 P.M. at the Norton Evangelical Presbyterian Church -- 1230 Church ST NW, Norton, VA 24273. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to Norton EPC (1230 Church ST NW, Norton, VA 24273) or The Southwest Virginia Education Consortium (1 College Ave., Wise, VA 24293).

Please visit www.sturgillfuneral.com to leave online condolences for the family.

Sturgill Funeral Home 1621 Norton Road SW Wise, VA 24293 is in charge of arrangements.