Junior "Red" Willis Wingard

On August 21, 2025, Junior "Red" Willis Wingard passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. Remarkably, this was also the day he celebrated his 80th birthday, and true to tradition, his loved ones gathered around to sing him "Happy Birthday." Just two weeks earlier, he and his beloved wife, Kay, marked their 55th wedding anniversary. Even while in the hospital, Red made sure to keep his tradition alive, sending her yellow roses as he had done faithfully every single year.

Red graduated from Deland High School in 1963, where he played football for  the Bulldogs, he proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 1967 where he was stationed in Bitburg Germany. Following his service, he worked with Florida Power & Light for 31 years, building both a career and a reputation as a hardworking, dependable man. In 1970, he married Katherine (Kay) Kirton.

An avid outdoorsman, Red could often be found in the woods, where he felt most at peace. He shared his love of adventure with his son, Jeffrey, especially at dirt bike races where Red was known as "the best pit guy" around. His loyalty also extended to sports: though a die-hard Florida Gators fan, Red never hesitated to don Florida State gear if it meant cheering on his granddaughter, Olivia. This past May, despite feeling unwell, he proudly stood by her side throughout her graduation weekend. His pride also ran deep for his grandson, Jacob, who has served in the U.S. Navy since 2020. Red's eyes would light up anytime he spoke of Jacob's service, and he cherished every conversation they shared about Navy life.

While Red was happiest at home, he built a lifetime of memories on family trips, exploring places as far as Hawaii, Germany, and Alaska. No matter the destination, he carried his trademark smile and quiet joy in simply being with the people he loved.

Above all, Red was a family man. He was selfless, kind, and always ready to lend a hand without ever expecting anything in return. His steady love and unwavering presence shaped his family's lives in ways words cannot fully capture.

Red is survived by his devoted wife, Katherine; his son Jeffrey (Kim); his grandchildren, Jacob and Olivia; and his older brother, Jack. They were the light of his life, and his love for them will live on in every memory, story, and tradition he leaves behind.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at Daytona Memorial Park North, 1423 Bellevue Ave. Daytona Beach A reception will be held at Giuseppe's Steel City Pizza, 3658 S. Nova Road, Port Orange at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Volusia Sheriff's Youth Foundation at www.vsyf.org