James Willard

James Alfred "Al" Willard, 53 years of age, joined his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Aug. 18, 2012 at his home in Dallas, Texas. He was born on March 21, 1959 in North Little Rock, Arkansas to James and Millie Willard. He married the love of his life, Sharon Frost on April 25, 1992. Together they had two beloved daughters, Hannah and Rachel. Al was a loving and faithful husband to Sharon for over 20 years and an incredibly devoted father to his girls.

Al graduated from the University of Arkansas with a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology, as well as a Master of Business Administration. He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. Al was a jack of all trades, and spent many years in the courier business. He loved golf, animals, telling jokes and giving a nickname to everyone he met. He volunteered in many activities for his daughters including coaching their volleyball teams, becoming a Y Princess dad, and leading their AWANA clubs. Al's passions were his faith and his family. He was a Bible study leader and most recently attended Prestonwood Baptist Church.

Al's charm and wit were only matched by the kindness and compassion that he showed to all those who knew him. His family wishes to acknowledge how very grateful they feel for the overwhelming love and support which they have received from family and friends.

Al was preceded in death by his father James Alfred Willard Sr., his mother Millie Willard, his sister Tina Willard and his stepmother Carlene Willard all of North Little Rock; as well as his father-in-law James Frost and mother-in-law Lavelle Frost of Midland.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Willard, and his two daughters Hannah and Rachel; his four step-sisters Kathy Norton and her husband David of Tulsa, OK; Karen Scott and her husband Shane of Denver, CO; Beth Bird and her husband Steve of Overland Park, KS; and Susan Brown and her husband David of North Little Rock, AR. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Laura Carter and her husband Tim of Midland; brother-in-law Greg Frost and his wife Kari of Lubbock; and brother-in-law Wade Frost and his wife Michelle of Houston; his cousin Valerie Underwood and her husband Joe of Truman, AR; his uncle Alvin Holmes of Stuttgart, AR; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, August 24, 2012, at Prestonwood Baptist Church (LBJ & Hillcrest location) with Pastor Chris Kouba officiating. The family wishes to invite everyone to remain afterward for a reception and time of fellowship. A private family interment will precede the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Al Willard's honor to any of the following charities:

Lake Highlands Young Life

Teen Challenge

American Heart Association