Kenneth E. Willey

Kenneth E. Willey, 79, of Independence, Missouri passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2025.  Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025 at Zion’s Hope Restoration Branch, Sibley, Missouri. Repast will follow at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to Zion’s Hope Restoration Branch, 36436 E Stoenner RD, Sibley, MO 64088. 

Kenneth was born on August 27, 1945 in Tower, Michigan, son of Raymond and Goldie (Peters) Willey. Kenneth was the proud owner of Sibley Apple Orchard, where generations of families visited each fall. He was an active member of RLDS Restoration, where his faith was a grounding presence throughout his life. A true outdoorsman at heart, Kenneth loved snowmobiling, farming, and spending time in nature. He had a natural gift for conversation and rarely met a stranger. Kenneth was a very successful Real Estate Agent. 

Kenneth had a passion for buying and selling a variety of items, always enjoying the stories that came with each trade. He never missed a chance to talk politics and appreciated good conversation, especially when surrounded by family. His love for his family and pets was evident in everything he did.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Joann in 2024; sons: Daniel Lee and Michael Ray Willey.

Kenneth is survived by his son, Ken Willey (Karen Brown) of Buckner, MO; grandchildren: Mitchell Ray Willey (Melody) of Oak Grove, MO; Jessica Alyson Looker (Andrew) of Independence, MO and 4 great grandchildren: Bennett Willey, Abel Willey, Dani Willey and Adam Looker; brothers: Dale Willey (Pam) of Tower, MI and Gary Willey of Cheyboygan, MI.

Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home Independence, MO (816) 796-8600

This Post Has One Comment

  1. Cheryl M Clute

    2 Aug 2025 Reply

    Ken was a one of a kind, he could talk about everything and there was never a dull moment when he was around. He was a great friend to me and Dan, we will always treasure the memories of Ken and Joann the rest of our lives. Ken will be greatly missed by all who really knew him and loved him. Rest in peace dear friend and brother in Jesus Christ.

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