Darrell Clay Willoughby

Darrell Clay Willoughby, age 52, of Ocala, Florida left this life on August 18, 2024. He was born September 19, 1971, in Lexington, Kentucky.

Darrell went to Lafayette High School in Lexington. Shortly after high school, he joined the military and served in the United States Army where he was military police (MP) for 4 years. He was stationed at Camp Darby in Pisa, Italy which gave him the opportunity to see all of Europe; as well as, being stationed at Ft. Leonard Wood Missouri. Darrell loved vintage VolkswagonBeetles and owned a restored 1964 Baja Beetle. He also loved boating and fishing in his free time and was especially proud of his boat Roberta the Robalo. Darrell grew up a Kentucky Wildcat and that carried with him no matter where he lived. 

Darell met his wife, Jennifer Willoughby in Ocala, FL and they were married September 16, 2000 in Las Vegas, NV. Darrell leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife Jennifer, sons, Brandon Roy Willoughby (Chelsea), Ian Clay Willoughby, and daughter Jillian Elizabeth Jo Willoughby. He leaves behind his stepmother Judy Willoughby, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Suzan and James LaMotte along with 8 siblings including Billy Willoughby, Jr., Jack Willoughby, Tena Willoughby, Yvonne Tolson, John Adams, Heather Jones, Tina Jones, and Rocky Rao. He also leaves behind 5 grandchildren, Noah, Sophia, Cashton, Kingston, and Leia.

Darrell was commonly referred to by his first and middle name and grew up in a large family with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He would say every birthday party was a full house. Darell could not resist an arcade claw machine and loved a good bourbon. He was quiet but observant and never faltered in his belief of doing the right thing all the time. He also had a group of friends that he still to this day called friends even though distance separated them over the years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and PeggyWilloughby; grandparents, James and Virginia Goodpaster; and Nellie and Ora Lee Willoughby.

A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday, August 27, 2024,at Countryside Funeral Home at 11:00 AM.