John David Willcott, 81, passed away on April 19, 2025, surrounded in love by his wife and daughter. He was born Aug. 22, 1943, in Chanute to Ethel Snyder Willcott and Ralph John Willcott Jr. John attended grade school and junior high at St. Patrick’s and graduated from Chanute High School in 1961. A proud Jayhawk, he received his Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Kansas in 1966.
He followed his father’s footsteps first as an insurance agent for BMA (both in Chanute and Overland Park) and then as an independent broker for many years. He was a member and leader of The Jaycees. Living in Overland Park much of his adult life with his family, he spent his last 23 years in Sunrise Beach where he enjoyed his involvement as St. Pat’s parishioner, Knights of Columbus member, and Treasurer for STAFF animal shelter (now Ozarks Kat and K9), and gym rat at Westside Fitness 24.
John was known for his dry wit, chef-like cooking skills, impeccable impersonations, encyclopedic knowledge of music, and love of weightlifting (Missouri Valley Champion 1964). He enjoyed traveling with his wife and friends, particularly fond of beaches and visits from local wildlife (monkeys seem to gravitate toward him).
John is survived by his wife of 43 years, Joan (Alley); daughter Leslie, brothers-inlaw and many nieces, nephews, and friends who were like family. He is preceded in death by both parents, sisters Nancy Denton (Gordon) and Beverly Martin (David); and son Christian. All of whom were deeply loved by John.
A visitation and rosary will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by mass at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 176 Marian Drive, Laurie, MO, 65037. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Lake Breeze Event Center, at 7127 Old Route 5, Camdenton, MO, 65020.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in John’s memory to Ozarks Kat and K9 at ozarkskatandK9.com or The National Shrine of Mary, Mother of the Church at info@ thenationalshrineofmarymotherofthechurch. com.
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber. com. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/ Sunrise Beach Chapel.
