Edward Willard Jr.

Edward “Big Ed” Willard Jr., 75, of Louisburg, NC formerly of Carteret County, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at his home.

Edward honorably served his country in the United States Air Force before dedicating his career to civil service at Cherry Point. His passion for music was evident throughout his life, as he became a familiar presence along the Crystal Coast, performing with various bands and sharing his musical talents with the community. Edward’s contributions extended beyond music; he was a proud member of Masonic Lodge #706 in Newport, North Carolina.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Noe-Brooks Funeral Home of Morehead City. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Morehead City with Military Honors and Masonic Rites. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 on Monday.

He is survived by his daughter, Olivia Willard and husband, Joseph Whichard of Wake Forest; son, Alex Willard and wife, Ashley of Raleigh; daughter, Lauren Willard of Louisburg, NC; grandchildren: Mia Ricks, Blaize Whichard, Greenlea Whichard; Ethan Whichard, Piper Wright, Brody Wright, Jaxon Willard, Sloane Willard; great grandchildren: Cruz and Harper Whichard; sister, Donna Willard of Raleigh; brother, Ken Willard and wife, Jackie of Union Mills, NC; brother-in-law, Walter Bickel and wife, Carol of Corpus Christi, TX; sister-in-law, Mitzi Foster and husband, Dennis of Morehead City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Betty Willard; wife, Peggy Willard; sister, Jo Yopp; mother-in-law, Doris Bickel; and father-in-law, George Bickel.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home & Crematory of Morehead City, NC.