Willard Eugene Thornbrugh

Willard Eugene Thornbrugh, of Williamsburg, Kansas, passed away on September 20, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 2, 1940, in Williamsburg, to Bill and Zola (Clark) Thornbrugh.

Willard graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1959.

He was a hard worker who took pride in doing things the right way. Over the years, he worked for Collins Bros. Construction, Clarke Construction, Ransomville Guernsey Farm, and the Phillips 66 Filling Station in Williamsburg. He made a career of being a bus driver and custodian at Williamsburg Schools for more than 40 years. He was very structured and dependable, often the first one there and last to leave. He also genuinely cared for the staff and students who filled the halls.

More than anything, Willard loved his family. He and his wife, Carolyn, shared 68 years of marriage and built a life together based on love, hard work, and commitment to one another. One of his greatest memories was their family trip to Florida for their 50th wedding anniversary where they renewed their vows on the beach.

His pride and joy were his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. They could always count on “Pa” for anything, including watching movies, snuggling, reading books, playing games, and make-believe adventures. He never missed a game or special event and was always there to support and encourage them.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Thornbrugh; his son, Richard “Rich” Thornbrugh and his wife, Denise, of Princeton, Kansas; and his daughter, Kitti Weigand, of Pomona, Kansas.

He also leaves behind his granddaughters, Amanda Hoyt and her husband, Jeffrey, of Pomona; Amy Wiscombe and her husband, Jayson, of Pomona; and Ashley “Bud” Orear and her husband, Tyson, of Allen, Kansas.

His great-grandchildren include Kristen Brightwell and her husband, Tommy; Colton Hoyt; Jayden Wiscombe; Jo Wiscombe; Virgil Orear; and Jenny Orear. He is also survived by his great-great-grandchildren, Ava Brightwell and Andie Brightwell.

Willard is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Virginia “Ginny” Perkins, of Topeka, Kansas, and Kathy Warren and her husband, Brad, of Topeka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Zola Thornbrugh; his sister, Jan Lutze; his brothers, John Thornbrugh and Terry Thornbrugh; and his brothers-in-law, Perky Perkins and Pete Lutze.

Cremation is planned. A casual Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at the Williamsburg Community Center, 126 W. William Street, Williamsburg, Kansas. Family and friends are invited to stop by, share memories, and celebrate Willard’s life.

Willard was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.

To share a memory of Willard or leave a special message of condolence for his family, please visit the guestbook below.