James W. Willoughby

James W. Willoughby passed away in his home on Saturday, February 19, 2022 in Rio Rancho, NM at the age of 84.

James is survived by his wife, Lila; children, Glenn (Lorraine) of Colorado, Tami of Rio Rancho, NM, Tracy (Jodelle) of Albuquerque, NM, Phillip Arthur (Rachel) of Edgewood, NM, Elizabeth of Vaughn, NM, Angels of Moriarty, NM, Ruben of Las Vegas, NV, and Regina (Heath) of Vaughn, NM; sister, Maxine White; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; a few great-great grandchildren; and his beloved pets, Rambo III and Nikki. He is preceded in death by his father, Elisha Ward; mother, Hilda Frances; brother, Elisha Ward Jr.; sisters, Betty Norton and Joyce Phillips; brother, Tommy; and his baby brother, Gary Dale.

James was born on July 31, 1937 in Dallas, TX to Elisha Ward Willoughby and Hilda Frances Brown Willoughby.  He received his GED from Sunset High. James served his country in the Marine Corps for 21 years during the Vietnam War and was a Master Sergeant.

James married Lila Martinez in May 11, 2002. He was a retired Marine and a real estate broker for 27 years. James was an avid stamp and military history postal covers collector. He was a dedicated member of the Gospel Light Baptist Church. He served 6 years with Frank Miller at nursing homes helping the elderly.

James will be greatly missed by all his friends and family members who loved him.

A funeral service will take place on Thursday, March 3, 2022 at 3:00 pm at Gospel Light Baptist Church, 1500 Southern Blvd SE, Rio Rancho, NM 87124. An interment will take place at a later date at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.