Edward T. "Ned" Willard, Jr., 92, of Wallingford passed away November 22, 2023. Born in Newton, MA on October 29, 1931, he was a son of the late Edward T. and Winifred (Tougas) Willard. Ned was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth (Mayer) Willard. He is survived by his daughter, Emily L. Willard of Plantsville. Ned was a devoted and beloved husband and father. In everything that he committed to, he was 100% reliable, responsible and loyal. He was retired from the Olin-Matheson Corp. and later was an elementary school janitor. Ned was an Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict and a faithful member of the Mason's Day Spring Lodge. Gardening was a favorite pastime, and he always shared his harvest. Ned enjoyed playing baseball and basketball well into his 80's. He was exceptional with numbers and record keeping. His cheerful disposition and silly sense of humor always made people smile. He played many roles over the decades at the First Baptist Church in New Haven from moderator to maintenance. If we all had an ounce of his devotion and service to God, the world would be a better place.
Friends may attend a Prayer Service on Friday, Dec. 15, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at Beecher & Bennett Funeral Home, 2300 Whitney Ave., Hamden. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Beaverdale Memorial Park.