Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel

912-754-6421     (fax) 912-754-3426

P.O. Box 295

Springfield, GA 31329

Willa Anne Searles

Rincon, GA – Willa Anne Searles, 60, passed away Thursday, February 15, 2018 at Effingham Care Center.

Born in Plattsburg, NY on November 11, 1957 Willa attended BOCES in Hudson Falls, NY, Community Workshop, Inc. of Queensbury, NY, The Ruth Byck Center in Savannah, and was a regular attendee at Coastal Bible Fellowship, in Rincon, GA. She participated in Special Olympics and the Buddy Walk numerous times over the years.

Willa had many hobbies and interests, including coloring, watching game shows, going bowling, and was a big fan of football. Willa had a heart of gold, was loved by many and she loved them too.  Her favorite phrase "Don't worry, be happy!"  is how she lived her life.  Willa's infectious smile will be missed by many as the fun loving person she was.  We love you and will miss you Willa.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Muriel Lucas Searles.

Survivors include her father, James Searles of Rincon, GA; sisters, Robin Searles (Jill Iocolano) of Auburn, NY and Pamela Crossman (Jack) of Chestertown, NY ; brothers, William Searles and Tom Searles (Cheryl) all of Rincon, GA; nieces and nephews, Mark Rodford, John Crossman (Jessica), Chelsey Crossman, William Barrett, Melissa McBryde, Joshua Searles (Ashley), and Rebekah Searles; aunts and uncles, and other  extended family.

Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday in the chapel.

Additional funeral services and burial will be held in Chestertown, NY with Barton-McDermott Funeral Home.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home Effingham Chapel (912)754-6421