George Willoughby

George Willoughby was born on March 8, 1949, to Walter and Blanche Willoughby, and passed away on July 10, 2025.

George was raised on a ranch alongside his sisters, Virginia “Gini” and Marcia. Life on the ranch taught him the wisdom of letting their dog, Shesahea, lead the way to avoid rattlesnakes and instilled in him the values of hard work, love, and respect. These values became the legacy he passed down to his children and grandchildren. His mother, Blanche, homeschooled George and his sisters in their early years. He later attended the Big Horn School for part of his elementary education. George would tell the tale that riding the school bus was the best part of going to a real school.  The long walk from the bus stop to home during the winter, not so much.

The family eventually moved to Hardin, where George finished elementary school. When Blanche obtained a teaching position at Lodge Grass Elementary School, the family moved to Lodge Grass. He attended Lodge Grass Junior High School and graduated from Lodge Grass High School in 1967. George played high school football as the center, served on the student council, and was a proud member of the LGHS “L” Club for three years.

George went on to attend Eastern Montana College, now known as MUS-B, where he pursued a degree in education. It was there that he met his future wife, partner, and friend, Vickie Charles.

George was a man who wore many hats. Some with buttons of his children, showing his pride to all. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, and loyal friend.

He was the proud father of four children – Amanda, Mindy, Brandy, and Nathaniel – and grandfather to nine – Draven, Isaac, Vincent, Avery, Xavier, Corbin, Henry, Charly, and Maisey. He embraced their interests, whether it was 4-H, sports, vehicles, or simply their imagination. He supported them wholeheartedly.

In 1975, George founded Willoughby Construction, which became a livelihood and a source of pride. Be it building homes or home projects – playhouse, dollhouse, barn with corrals, GI Joe Training Facility, yo-yos, swords, or nunchaku, he poured his heart into every project.

George was active in the Shepherd Community, deeply committed to supporting local youth and families. His generous spirit made a lasting impact through his work with the Shepherd Booster Club. Becoming a master of barbecuing burgers and hot dogs, George found great joy in serving as Shepherd Little League Softball Player Agent, a role he embraced with dedication and heart. Together with a team of devoted parents, he helped shape the development of the community softball and baseball fields. Efforts that continue to benefit generations to come. George was especially proud of the T-ball field, built for the youngest players to have their first taste of the game.

He loved having his family share the outdoors with him. He found joy in camping, hunting, taking long drives, spotting wildlife, cloud-watching, or simply sitting in silence. Becoming members of the Rimrock 4x4 Club was a large part of the Willoughby family. It was a time of friendships, camping in areas where 4-wheel drive was not an option, seeing breathtaking scenery, and appreciating while respecting the wilderness.

George was the rock of his family. Strong, gentle, and loving, he was someone his family could always rely on. His quiet humor, loyal heart, and patient strength defined him.

Though he could be stubborn, his goofiness, wisdom, and unwavering love will always be remembered, honored, and cherished.