James Edwin "Jim" Willard

James Edwin “Jim” Willard, 91, of Shelbyville, passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at his home.

He was born on November 1, 1934, in Fountaintown, the son of Cortland and Grace (Snider) Willard. On March 28, 1953, he married Barbara Gayle Ewick, and she preceded him in death on February 10, 2025.

James is survived by his daughters, Carol Fowler and husband, James, of Shelbyville, Sandra Smith and partner, Billy Mohr, of Shelbyville, Terri Miller and husband, Bill, of Indianapolis, and Connie Turner of Shelbyville; son, Bruce Willard and wife, Alicia, of Shelbyville; brother, Frank Willard of New Palestine; sister, Geraldine Garriott-Gaskill of New Palestine; grandchildren, Sally Fowler Perkins, Brian Fowler, Jamey Smith, Johnny Smith, Jason Smith, Gayle Lyster, Leslie Miller, Greg Turner, Jess Willard, Jeana Craft and Jacob Gahimer; 25 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to Barbara, James was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Paul Willard, George Willard, Cortland Willard and Gerald Willard; sisters, Treva Bardonner and Anna Baldwin; and son-in-law, John Smith.

He graduated from Morristown High School in 1952.

Jim was a member of the West Street United Methodist Church, where he served on numerous committees and held many offices. He was also a Sunday school teacher.

Jim was a 55-year member of the Sugar Creek Masonic Lodge No. 279 F&AM. He was also a member of the Baldwin Commandry and York Rite.

He was an electrician all over the country, including Indianapolis Power and Light, Continental Power Services and retiring from Jacksonville Power in 1999. While traveling they made many lasting friendships.

After retiring, he became Barbara’s personal chauffer, driving her to her club meetings, often being rewarded with a complimentary lunch.

He enjoyed his position as a yellow shirt safety patrolman for the Indianapolis 500, for 25 years. He was also a Special Deputy for the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department from 1971 to 1979.

Jim was a fan of NASCAR and Indy car racing. He loved to spend time vacationing, traveling, boating, working jigsaw puzzles, playing cards and square dancing.

Most importantly, he was a gentle and caring man, who loved his family and cherished the special moments they spent creating wonderful memories.

Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm, Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville, with the Masonic services at 7 pm.

Funeral services will be at 11 am, Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the funeral home.

Interment will be at Fountaintown Cemetery in Fountaintown.

Memorial contributions may be made to the West Street United Methodist Church, 629 S. West St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176 or Our Hospice of South Central Indiana, 2626 E. 17th St., Columbus, Indiana 47201.

Online condolences may be shared with Jim’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.