Mary Willingham

Mary JoAnne Tipps Willingham, 90, of Waco, Texas, went to her eternal rest Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at Town Hall Estates in Hillsboro, Texas. Funeral services will be at 10 am Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at OakCrest Funeral Home with Rev. T-Bone Lewis of Fellowship of Loving Hearts officiating. Burial will follow at White Rock Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be from 5 to 7 pm, Monday, January 18, at OakCrest Funeral Home.

JoAnne was born in Waco, Texas on September 5, 1930 to Horace Ivan Tipps and Fannie Inez White. JoAnne was a lifelong resident of Waco. She was employed at Clement Grain Co., a homemaker, daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother and a true friend.

On March 4, 1950, she married the love of her life, Harlan Odie Willingham in Waco, Texas. JoAnne and Harlan spent their marriage raising a family and taking care of one another. They loved taking day trips, traveling, sightseeing and just going nowhere. They would drive to Gholson for a watermelon, or West to get ring bologna and cheese. One time they even drove 100 miles just to get a hamburger.

JoAnne loved painting, reading, caring for her husband, spending time with her family, and dancing with her wonderful husband of 60 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and beloved son, John David Willingham.

JoAnne is survived by son, Harlan "Mike" Willingham and wife, Carolyn of Penelope; daughter, Elaine Hughes and husband, Dale of Houston; daughter-in-law, Donna Willingham of Waco; brother, Mac Tipps and wife, Deborah of Arkansas; sister, La Dene Tipps of Waco; sister-in-law, Sally McMillian of Gatesville; 14 grandchildren; numerous great and great-great grandchildren; nieces; nephews; cousins; and friends.

Pallbearers are Micah Willingham, James Willingham, Austin Perkins, Sam Perkins, Harlan Perkins, and Hunter Perkins.

All Covid-19 Restrictions will be observed.