Geraldine Beth Willoughby Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Geraldine (Geri) Beth Willoughby, age 81, died July 2, 2021 at home with her family. She was born August 18, 1939 in San Luis Obispo, California to Seth and Theo Kinney. She married Bertram Charles Willoughby on July 20, 1958 at First Presbyterian Church in Santa Barbara. As a young mom, Geri’s world was turned upside down by studying the Bible at Bible Study Fellowship (BSF). There, her faith in Jesus flourished. Her life was grounded with hope and purpose. Eventually passing it along in her role as a BSF discussion leader. Both her faith and tenacious spirit were nurtured and guided by Bert’s Grandmother, Elizabeth Kelly. Geri opened her home to many. She spent decades investing in both her “bio” children and over 20 foster children. She drove these children to school, church and other activities. She visited Yosemite annually, lead youth trips to the Sierras and drove across America. She preferred driving so her children could experience history and come to know America. She had a heart for the vulnerable, especially children, shut-ins and the disabled. She obtained a commercial driver’s license so she could drive teenagers to youth camps and the elderly and disabled to church. She headed the van ministry at 1st Presbyterian Church for over 45 years. She cooked countless meals for junior and senior high students both at church and during backpacking trips she organized. Her backyard, dubbed, “Willoughby World” was opened as a playground for Salvation Army Kids, church kids and individuals in need of rest or fun. She delighted in providing opportunities for, “kids to be kids” and for them to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. The kids at Willoughby World enjoyed playing with big dogs, swimming, going down a 16-foot water slide, and eating snow cones, cotton candy, hot dogs and popcorn. For some this was an escape from the pains of a difficult childhood. She loved to create beauty through sewing and crafting. She leaves behind a home that has been well lived in, children she is proud of and a spiritual legacy of changed lives. She touched so many. She is survived by her husband, Bert Willoughby, children Bret Willoughby (Nancy), Bart Willoughby, Brenda Lilly (Glen), Sheila Henne (Rod), Shannon Williams (Richard), Joanie Lawson (CraIg) Adrian Romero (Barbara) Ingrid Rivas (Fred), 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her mother-in-law, father in-law, her sisters, and sister-in-law. A memorial service will be held July 31, 2021 at 1 pm at First Presbyterian Church Santa Barbara 21 E. Constance, Santa Barbara. Flowers may be sent to the church. Donations may be given to Salvation Army Camp Scholarship for needy children in Santa Barbara County. https://give-cas.salvationarmy.org/give/349426/#!/donation/checkout

Geraldine Beth Willoughby

August 18, 1939 - July 2, 2021