Willard Lee Ambrose, 87, peacefully passed away on November 19 surrounded by his loving family. He was born in East Lake, NC to the late Lee & Dixie Ambrose.
Willard is preceded in death by his loving wife of 46 years, Mary Lou.
Willard is survived by his children Lynn & Mike Gallob, Larry & Annette Ambrose, and Jaime Ambrose; his grandchildren, Mikie & Shannon Gallob, Jr., Amber & Sam Lattuca, Larry “LJ” Gallob, and Lauren & Bradley Windham; and the apples of his eye his 6 great grandchildren: Kamryn & Piper Gallob, Mary Ella & Aniston Lattuca, and Dean & Sadie Windham; his brothers Irvin & Willie Ambrose, Bill Zelms and, Jack & Darlys Cake III, as well as many nieces and nephews whom he loved very much.
Willard was an avid motorcycle rider and loved any time he spent in his kayak on the water. He loved reading, watching westerns, and everything NASCAR. But most importantly, he enjoyed spending time with his family, even if it meant just sitting and watching a sunset or playing board games around the table. He was happiest when he was with his family.
He was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving his country in the Army, stationed in Okinawa, Japan. After which, he spent many years as a plasterer by trade. In retirement he enjoyed doing lawn work for a number of friends. He had many hobbies over the years which included woodworking, stained glass pieces, and glass etchings. You could usually either find him out in his sheds “piddling” around or sitting on his porch in his rocking chair relaxing.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation in Willard’s name to Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church or Green Acres Presbyterian Church.
Visitation will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 25 at Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church.
The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, November 25 at Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Jay Pi of Lynnhaven Presbyterian Church, and the Rev. Elizabeth Hilkerbaumer of Green Acres Presbyterian Church officiating.
A small reception will be held after the service, with a committal following the reception at London Bridge Baptist Church.