Willis C. (Bill) Garst, Jr., 85, of Salem, peacefully entered into his eternal life on Tuesday, February 2, 2016. He was born on December 22, 1930 in Salem to the late Willis Christian Garst, Sr. and Elsie Wood Garst. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Calvin Garst; and sister, Shirley Garst Maupin.
Bill was a veteran, having served his country in the Air Force for four years. He was an All-Star in basketball and football at Andrew Lewis, carrying his love of sports into his later life as a little league coach. He loved coaching, and was a powerful influence in the lives of many children. He was a faithful follower of Jesus and loved his church. A member of Ridgewood Baptist Church for over 50 years, he taught Sunday School, served as a Trustee, and was Chairman of the Board of Deacons and all other committees of the church. He loved his family dearly and will be deeply missed.
Family left to cherish his memory include his wife of 61 years, Cecilia Garst; sons, Richard C. Garst and girlfriend Jennifer Crawford, and Russell A. Garst and wife Sherrill; siblings, Betty Jean Harris, and Evelyn Garst Jones; grandchildren, Jasper Christian, Haley Elizabeth, Carlye Morgan, and Dustin Shae Garst; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
The family will receive friends from 6 until 8 p.m., Thursday, February 4, 2016 at Ridgewood Baptist Church in Roanoke. Funeral Services will be held at the church on Friday, February 5, 2016 at 11 a.m., with Pastor Roy Kanode officiating. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Ridgewood Baptist Action Fund, 703 Hemlock Rd Nw, Roanoke, VA 24017, or to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675. An online guestbook is available by visiting www.johnmoakey.com. The Garst family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home, Salem, (540)389-5441.