WILMINGTON — A kind and gentle man, Kenneth Elmore Willetts, ended his journey Sunday, Oct. 25, 2020, and went home to his creator.
Kenneth Elmore Willetts was born July 27, 1950, at James Walker Hospital, Wilmington. He was preceded by death by his parents, Elmore Willetts and Louise Johnson Willetts; and in-laws, Harry Henry Heissner and Gloria Parangelo Heissner, who he adored and had a wonderful relationship with.
Surviving is his wife of 32 years, Patrice Heissner Willetts; loving daughter, Victoria Louise Willetts O’Connor, and her husband, Thomas O’Connor, of whom he was proud to call son-in-law. Kenneth was the oldest of five children, surviving him are his siblings, Jerry Dale Willetts, and his wife, Susan; William Walker Willetts; Rebecca Willetts Jackson and Charles Willetts. Family also includes Debbie Ensor Willetts and Sam Edwards. Kenneth was very proud of his nieces and nephews, Nathan Kye, and his wife, Kimberly, Valerie Willetts Young, and her husband, Justin, Jessica Willetts Ryhanych, and her husband, Andrew, Morgan Willetts Bullard, and her husband, Jeremy, Jennifer Willetts Schrom, and her husband, Josh, Patrick Willetts, and his wife, Jordan. He is also survived by numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Kenneth grew up on the family farm in Winnabow. He worked at Dupont, and then with his father at their community store. He then worked for 30 years at Progress Energy Nuclear Power Plant in Southport, retiring a few years ago. Kenneth also had his real estate license for almost 40 years. He found so much joy in helping Tony Harrington, broker-in-charge at The Property Shop International, with behind-the-scenes activities. He was especially proud to be involved and supportive of the brokers at the firm. He was always willing to help with signs, measuring listings and helping with floor plans.
Kenneth was a Mason and enjoyed making a difference and being involved. He drove the Thunderbolts for the Shrine Club for many years. As an electrician, he volunteered for many years helping to set up the power that kept all the trees lit during the Hospice Festival of Trees when it was held at the Hilton in downtown Wilmington. One of the most important roles he proudly held was to be the best dad to his daughter, Victoria. They found hours of joy together at the barn with her horses, planning trips to horse shows and making sure all her tack was taken care of. He was the quiet strength behind both Victoria and Patrice.
Kenneth and Patrice married in 1987. They were blessed to have made many friends over the years through many different activities they were involved in. Kenneth loved beach music, and he loved to dance. One very special song defines Kenneth very well, “So Easy To Love,” which Kenneth was.
Due to the pandemic and our desire to not bring people together unnecessarily, the family has agreed to postpone a celebration of life until the spring.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Kenneth’s honor to The REALTOR® Relief Fund; paws4people Foundation; Rotary International; Shriners; Lower Cape Fear Hospice; or, in these uncertain times, find a way to volunteer your time or talent to make this world a better place.
Share online condolences with the family at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation.
