John D. Willingham, 78 years, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 12, 2010. John passed away at The Trinity Medical Center in Birmingham, AL.
Born January 9, 1932 in Dearborn, MI John was the son of the late Cecil and Frances (Nail) Willingham.
On November 6, 1952 in Talladega, AL, John married the one true love of his life the former Mary J. Parker.
John served his country during the Korean War as a corporal in the US Army from July 25, 1952 to July 17, 1954.  For his heroism John was awarded the following; Korean Service Ribbon with 1 Bronze Star, the Campaign Star, National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Shortly after his discharge from the Army, John began his career at Ford Motor Company where he worked tirelessly to care for his family. John retired in 1992 as an inspector at the Wixom Assembly Plant after 37 years of service.
John was a member of the Northline Baptist Church in Taylor, MI. John enjoyed collecting hats, model cars, bird watching and cooking.  Most of all John enjoyed spending time with and caring for his family.
John his survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Mary, 9 loving children; Robert W. and Cecil Willingham both of Mt. Carmel IL, David D. (Lynn) Willingham of Talladega, AL, Michael S. (Joan) Willingham of Romulus, MI, Catherine E. Willingham of Jamestown RI, Peggy J. (Barry) Martin of Rochester Hills, MI, Brenda S. (Marvin) Olsen of Linwood, MI, Ruth Diane (Tom) West of Hale, MI and Patricia A. (Joe) Matthew of Monroe, 27 cherished grandchildren, 30 treasured great grandchildren, a brother Francis (Rosie) and a sister Sally. In addition to his parents John was preceded in death by 8 brothers and sisters.
In keeping with John's wishes; family viewing and services will be private. Interment will be held at Michigan Memorial Park in Flat Rock, MI
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Heart Association.