Obituaries » Vickie Austin Willis

November 28, 1957 - July 8, 2022

Vickie Austin Willis, 64, of Lynchburg, VA passed away peacefully on July 8, 2022, in the comfort of her home. She was surrounded by her family as she stepped into heaven.

Born November 28, 1957, in Lynchburg, VA, Vickie was the daughter of Helen Austin Dooley of Lynchburg, and the late William Byrd Austin, Sr.

Vickie’s family was her world, and she, theirs. Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Michael L. Willis of Lynchburg, VA; her loving children, Michael “Todd” Willis and his wife Angela of Bedford, VA, Steven “Wayne” Willis and his wife Beth of Forest, VA, and Jessica “Nikky” Smith and her husband Tanis of Lynchburg, VA; her brother William Byrd Austin, Jr., and his wife Julie of Appomattox; and several nieces and nephews. Vickie is also survived by the loves of her life – her 9 grandchildren: Bradley, Kaleigh, Austin, Parker, Aiden, Emerson, Karris, Dawson, and Hudson. She is preceded in death by her sister Sherry Ann Austin.

Vickie was a friend to everyone she met. Her vibrant spirit and bubbly personality drew people to her, and her laughter was infectious. Vickie was a loving and devoted wife, married to her high school sweetheart for 47 years. She was not only an amazing mother to her children, but also, their best friend. Vickie loved to travel, specifically to the beach. While that was her treasured vacation spot, her favorite place to be was anywhere with her husband, kids, and grandkids.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Sunday, July 10, 2022, at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg. A celebration of Vickie’s life will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 11, 2022, in the chapel of Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg with Rev. Bob Mooty officiating. Interment will follow in Spring Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Centra Hospice.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

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Mike, a chance meeting just weeks before Vicky went to her reward brought you into our lives and prayers. Our heart breaks for you and your children and grandchildren, but we know you understand that you'll see her again. We are so thankful to have met you, and want you to know that we are here for you. God bless your family. We will continue to pray for strength during this difficult journey.

Posted by John and Linda Pantana on July 15, 2022

Mike and family. I am so very sorry for your loss. We spent almost every weekend together when we lived in VA. I still laugh about "tentative camping", "shivered almonds" and so many other words Vickie seemed to make up. You guys were our best friends and still remain such. Love ya'll The Striet Family Ralph

Posted by Ralph Striet on July 12, 2022

It was a beautiful service for a beautiful person.

Posted by Linda Key on July 11, 2022

To Kaleigh and family. I am so sorry for your loss. She was always so kind to me when I drove Kaleigh on my bus. I would see her in town and she would always stop and chat for a few. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this most difficult time.

Posted by Denise Carr on July 11, 2022

Vickie was a beautiful loving and caring person and will be missed. Our thoughts prayers and love will continue with Helen , Mike and family.

Posted by Sandra allen on July 10, 2022

Vickie you were one of the kindest, funniest and vibrant people we ever met. I know you will be missed so deeply. Prayers sent to all of your family and friends. May God send them some comfort and peace.

Posted by Jackie & Charlie Cox on July 9, 2022

Vickie was a friend since high school, and she'd text me pictures of her family that she loved so.much. She'd also send me pictures of her beautiful holiday decorations. Nobody did Christmas like Vickie. She met me once in the Target parking lot to give me some Christmas lights she bought me for my home in NC. Always, always thinking of others. I know she missed her sister so much, and they're catching up in Heaven. God give your family peace because the love you have for them was amazing. I love you my friend!

Posted by Lynne Spruce-Walker on July 9, 2022

Vickie was always the sweetest, most kind person. I’m sad to hear of her passing. Many prayers and condolences to her family, whom she cherished! 🙏🏼

Posted by Nichole Jones on July 9, 2022

Prayers and comfort for the family.

Posted by Diane Smith on July 8, 2022

Prayers for family and friends. RIP sweet lady.

Posted by Diane Smith on July 8, 2022

Vickie will be sorely missed. She was such a caring, loving friend. Praying for comfort for the family in the days ahead. Love you, Vicky❤️

Posted by Valerie Tomlinson on July 8, 2022

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