William “Darrell” Willocks (1947–2026)

Darrell passed away peacefully at home, embraced by the family he cherished and devoted his life to. His unwavering integrity, humility, and perseverance were a testament to the values instilled in him from his childhood years until the present day on his family farm. The lessons learned among those Northeast Tennessee fields shaped his character and inspired all who knew him, leaving a legacy rooted in love, hard work, and deep connection with his heritage.

Known for unwavering honesty and reliability as an Engineer with BrightRidge, he retired to devote more time to family. He cared for his wife, Peggy “Peg”, until her passing in Dec. 2024.

He had quiet faith. Pastor Donald Mushayamunda carried him through life’s hardest losses: his wife, brothers, and youngest sister. Darrell’s family has been and continues to be blessed with Donald’s Christlike love, and it remains a priceless blessing to the family.

Darrell & Peggy instilled deep respect for character & service in their children & grandchildren.

Nothing brought Darrell more joy than time with his youngest daughter, Amy, the light of his life, confidante, & best friend. Billy, his only son, was always there with attentive listening & shared humor, bonded through sports, history & surviving life’s challenges together. The two spent many years keeping each other seen & heard. His oldest, Renee, supported him behind the scenes, sharing a quiet bond with her dad.

Becoming “Pappy” to his grands, whom he nicknamed Hollyn, his “Doa”, William III, his “son/boy”, & Amia, “his sea girl,” was the highlight of his life; he showed up for them with steady love, creating lasting bonds. William was able to offer wisdom beyond his years; his physical presence and love helped Darrell after his wife’s passing. His close proximity and admiration for his grandfather transcended typical grandparent-to-grandchild relationships. William has been such a blessing to Darrell’s adult children during this challenging time, as well. He prides himself on continuing his namesake’s legacy.

He valued golf, friends, and Amy’s pawed princesses Izzy and Lexie, his grand furs.

Family remained central: he loved time with his brothers Brice & Mike, the three of them inseparable. He admired his sister Brenda Tucker, the eldest adult child, whose character & conviction remained unfaltering, and the cherished memory of his youngest sister, Cindy Willocks.

Darrell believed family was defined by love, not titles. Angela Goodwin Willocks was truly one of his own; he respected her determination, strength & how much she dedicated to William in life. His son‑in‑law John was a trusted friend & third “son” he could always count on. Lastly, Lane Leonard, Hollyn’s fiancé, supported the family through losses of grandparents/parents with a quiet, reverent strength that brought calm during the storms.

Darrell was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother-in-law Larry Tucker, sister-in-law Joyce Willocks, in‑laws Ed & Betty “Perkins” Curde, brother‑in‑law Russell Curde, his brothers, youngest sister, as well as other relatives & friends.

He is survived by his sister Brenda Tucker of KY, aunt Shirley “Perkins” Adkins (KY), aunt Sonja “Curde” Smalling & uncle Doug Smalling, sister‑in‑law Stephanie Curde, & numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, neighbors, & friends.

“Long after the tools are put away, & Big D’s workshop grows quiet, its doors will remain open in the hearts of all who walked through them.”

Big D didn’t build things - he built people. His legacy lives on in the hearts strengthened by his kindness, offering comfort and inspiration to all who knew him.

Honoring his wishes, a private ceremony will be held with his adult children and grandchildren.

In place of flowers, please lend a hand to someone in need, support your local community, or donate to a cause that strengthens families in Northeast Tennessee. He believed the greatest legacy was found in quietly serving others.