James D. Willbanks

James D. “Willie” Willbanks, 75, of Aurora, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021, at his home. He was born Oct.30, 1946, in Springfield, the son of John Robert and Marie (Corkren) Willbanks.
Willbanks was a 1965 graduate of Central High School, in Springfield and retired from Carnation Milk Plant in Mt. Vernon after 30 years. He worked for the Teamsters Union in Joplin.
On Feb. 14, 1987, he married Inita Fletcher, in Mt. Vernon.
Willbanks is survived by his wife of 34 years, Inita; two daughters, Angel and Diane; one son, James; three stepdaughters, Donna, Lisa and April; 14 grandchildren; nine step grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; several step great-grandchildren; three brothers, Pete, Johnny, and David Willbanks and two sisters, Susan Willbanks and Janet “Katie” (Willbanks) Rainey.
Willbanks was preceded in death by his parents, John and Marie; one grandson, Jason; and one stepson, Will.
No services are planned at this time.  Burial will be held at a later date at the Spring River Cemetery in Verona. Arrangements are under the direction of the Crafton-Cantrell Funeral Home, in Aurora.
Online condolences may be shared at www.CraftonCantrellFuneralHome.com.