Ginger Willard

Ginger Lillian Flattum Willard, age 78, passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, in her home in Bloomington, surrounded by her loving family.  

Ginger was born on May 17, 1947, in Harvey, Illinois, to Lucille and Ralph Flattum.  She graduated from Momence High School in 1965. A dedicated lifelong learner, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Western Illinois University and went on to earn her Master’s Degree from Illinois State University.  

On June 9, 1968, Ginger married the love of her life, Eric Willard.  Together, they made their home in Delavan, Illinois, where she dedicated over 30 years teaching Home Economics at Delavan High School.  Ginger loved her students and the subjects she taught, and she is remembered fondly for her dedication, compassion, care, and empathy. Her teaching passions included cooking, sewing, child development, nutrition, and sociology. Beyond the classroom, Ginger poured her heart into the community: organizing fashion shows, sewing team uniforms for the junior high track and baseball teams, running the Chili Supper at the Delavan Carnival, and leading student trips to Chicago. Her contributions left a lasting impact on generations of students and families.

In retirement, Ginger found joy in spending time with her grandchildren, painting, crafting, cooking, and helping others. But her greatest love was always for her husband, Eric, and their family. She often expressed how blessed she felt to live a life full of happiness, joy, and love. Her devotion to Eric, whom she met in high school, was unwavering throughout their 57 years of marriage. 

Ginger was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Sandra Parker. She is survived by her beloved husband, Eric Willard; her children, Shelly Lester and Dan (Karen) Willard; her sister, Linda Reed; grandchildren, Adam (Sara) Lester, Mark Lester, Jeff (Erin) Lester, Connor (Nicole) Kreifel, Grant Lester, Jackson Lester, Quinn Willard, Ridge Willard, Taylor Lester, Hayes Willard, and Monroe Willard; great-grandchildren, Lincoln Lester, Lennon Lester, and Wyatt Lester; and many dear nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 18, from 3-5 pm at Prairie Bible Church, 715 E. 4th St., Delavan, IL 61734. A celebration of Ginger’s life will follow at 5:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Daniel T. Larimore, honoring the joy and love she brought to all who knew her.   

Memorials may be made to the Delavan School District Family and Consumer Science Program.  

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