Luther Wayne Willoughby

Luther Wayne Willoughby, husband of Gail Duff Willoughby, age 64, passed away on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at his home in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was born in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, on September 5, 1960, to the late John Daniel "J.D." Willoughby, Sr., and the late Teresia Powell Willoughby. Luther proudly served and retired from the United States Army as a Master Sergeant after twenty-three years of dedicated service. Throughout his military career, he distinguished himself by earning numerous prestigious accolades that reflect his commitment and excellence. These honors include the Meritorious Service Medal, awarded for outstanding non-combat achievements; the Army Commendation Medal, recognizing acts of heroism and meritorious service; and the Army Achievement Medal, given for significant accomplishments. Additionally, he was awarded the Army Good Conduct Medal for his exemplary behavior and military performance, as well as the National Defense Service Medal, which acknowledges service during a time of national emergency, for both Florida and Indiana. Luther also received the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal for his involvement in operations aimed at combating terrorism, as well as the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, which highlights his commitment to professional growth and leadership development. His accomplishments include the Army Service Ribbon, a symbol of his service, and the Overseas Service Ribbon, which recognizes his time spent serving outside the continental United States. Moreover, Luther earned the prestigious M16 Rifle Expert Qualification Badge, a testament to his exceptional marksmanship skills. His military journey is marked by dedication, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to his country. Luther was a proud member of the Kentucky Colonels and the Disabled American Veterans, embodying a spirit of community and service. Above all, he cherished his family, who were the cornerstone of his world. Luther's love for the outdoors was apparent in his many hobbies—whether it was patiently casting his fishing line into the lake, foraging for mushrooms in the woods, or enjoying a round of golf on a sunny day. An avid NASCAR fan, he would eagerly cheer for his favorite drivers, and he displayed a deep passion for Kentucky athletics. Luther was an outdoorsman who loved working in his yard. His wonderful sense of humor brightened the lives of those around him; he was affectionately known as the "King of Dad Jokes." With a laid-back demeanor and quick wit, Luther had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone he met, making him a beloved figure in his community. He genuinely loved helping others, always willing to lend a hand or share a laugh. In addition to his parents, Luther is preceded in death by one daughter, Amanda Nicole Willoughby; two brothers: John Daniel "Johnny" Willoughby II and William "Bill" Willoughby. In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters: Stephanie Lee (Scott) O'Malia of Decatur, Alabama, and Shelby Leanne Willoughby of Greenwood, Indiana; five brothers: Sherman (Patum) Willoughby of Las Vegas, Nevada, Linville Willoughby of Stanton, Larry (Bonnie) Willoughby of Jeffersonville, Leon Willoughby and Jeffrey Willoughby both of Stanton; four sisters: Sharlene (Thomas) Stevenson of Stanton, Ruth Charles of Jeffersonville, Rebecca Henry of Stanton, and Madonna Lawson of LaFayette; and three grandchildren: Rowan Wayne O'Malia, Zelda Ray O'Malia, and Romee Gail Eckert. Visitation will be held from 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Hearne Funeral Home, 125 West College Avenue, Stanton, Kentucky. Funeral services, officiated by Don Whitaker and Master Sergeant Jarrad McGreggor, will be held immediately following visitation at 2:00 P.M. Burial will be at Stonegate Cemetery in Stanton, with Joe Stevenson, Jarrad McGreggor, Brian Bland, Ben Bland, Wesley Bland, and Scott O'Malia serving as active pallbearers. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hearne Funeral Home of Stanton.