Robert 'Rob' James Willard, age 61, of New Castle, PA, passed away April 2, 2026, at UPMC Montefiore Hospital, in Pittsburgh, PA.

Born Oct. 12, 1964, in Compton, CA, he was the son of the late Russell Arthur and Mary Ellen (Weddle) Willard.

On Feb. 7, 1990, Rob married his best friend and wife of 36 years, Toni Raynae (Boughter) Willard. She survives at home.

Rob was a graduate of South Range High School. He faithfully served in the United States Navy. For over 15 years, Rob worked as a press operator employed by PHD, in Columbiana, OH. Rob enjoyed fishing, 80's rock music, car shows, ice cream, grilling, and picnics with his family. Rob found great joy year-round in dressing up as Santa for his 7 grandchildren and other families in the surrounding communities. Above everything else in life, he treasured his family, especially his wife, children and grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Rob is survived by three daughters, Elizabeth Reents, of Boardman, OH; Staci Willard of New Castle, PA, and Brittany (Edmund) Kolodziej of Boardman, OH; one brother, Russell (Audrey) Willard of Lisbon, OH; and seven grandchildren, Gage, Cole, Landan, Julianna, Anthony, Kenzie, and Brielle.

Along with his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Deanna White and Lara Lee Willard.

In keeping with his wishes there will be no services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R. Cunningham Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA.