Margaret C. Willis, 88, of Winchester VA, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.
Margaret was born on April 25, 1937, in Frederick County, VA. She was the daughter of the late James E. Cornwell, Jr. and Hadassa Olive White Cornwell. Margaret was a graduate of James Wood High School, Class of 1955. She was a member of FHA and Beta Club and ranked among the top of her graduating class. She began her career as a secretary and enjoyed her time working at O’Sullivan and Henkel Harris. Margaret married Buddy Willis in 1957, and when they began their family, she was able to spend the next several years focusing on raising their girls. In 1978, she and Buddy had the opportunity to purchase a wholesale business, and they owned and operated Buddy’s Inc. in Winchester until they sold the business in 1991. She then worked at the Credit Bureau of Winchester and later retired from F&M Bank.
Throughout her adult life, Margie was an active member of Burnt Factory Church and was involved in all aspects of church life, including worship, committees, and a variety of activities that supported the church and community. She cherished her role as “Mamaw” to her grandchildren, cheering them on at sporting events, taking them to and from activities, and creating memories that they’ve carried into their adult years. She was beyond excited at the birth of each of her great-grandchildren and loved her time with them, as well. Margie’s kindness, selflessness, and generosity of spirit shone through in her every interaction and will be greatly missed.
Margaret is survived by her daughters, Denise, Donna and Deanna; grandchildren, Matthew Anderson (Ashley), David Werdebaugh (Sarah), Amanda Simmers, Tucker Simmers (Cheyanne) and Charles Simmers (Brandi); great-grandchildren, Landon and Addison Anderson, and Avery, TJ, and Claire Simmers; sister, Marsha C. Boden (Bob); sister-in-law, Phyllis Cornwell; sister-in-law, Charlotte Elms (Dick); and many nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents, Margaret is preceded in death by her husband and her brother, Ronnie Cornwell.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 12:00pm, with a service to follow at 1:00pm at Omps Funeral Home, South Chapel. Interment will be private. Pastor Steve Melester will be officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Margie to Burnt Factory Church, 1943 Jordan Springs Rd., Stephenson, VA 22656 or Olive Branch Food Pantry (Victory Church) 2870 Middle Rd., Winchester, VA 22601 (victorywinchester.com/foodpantry).