Whitney Chase Willard

It is with great sadness that the family of Whitney Chase Willard announce his passing. He left us before we were ready on Sunday, August 9, 2020. Chase was born in Charleston on May 4, 1973. the son of Anne (David) Pettus and W. J. (Joan) Willard, all of Charleston. He is survived by his parents, his wife Elisa and his beloved son, Sasha, who live in Italy. Also surviving are his brothers, Judd (Schellie) Willard of Asheville, NC and James Thornley of Charleston. Other extended family members include Taylor, Carson, Marnie, Susan, Peggy, Jenny and Angie. Chase was employed by James Island Heating and Air. He was usually seen with his constant canine companion, Everly. She is still waiting and watching for him to return. Chase was known as a kind, loving, and giving person, with a ready smile, who was always there if you needed him. He had a gentle spirit, was creative and artistic. He was fun-loving with a quick smile and a laugh ready to share and lift your spirit. He cherished his family and made life-long friendships. He will always be a Shining Light in all of our lives. He enjoyed traveling, especially to Italy, where he loved being with Sasha, the Light of his Life. If ever you missed Chase, he probably was near the water - where he was happiest - fishing, surfing, kayaking, canoeing, shrimping, crabbing or building castles in the sand Since childhood, Chase has been a Clemson Tiger fan - always wearing Orange - especially in the midst of friends and family wearing Garnet and Black! He looked forward to Sunday dinners at Grandma's and talking to his Granddad about farming or race car drivers. Chase was born in Charleston but he was a free-spirited resident of the World. His job on this Earth is done and he is now with his Heavenly Father. He loved God and knew that God loved him. We are Blessed to have been a part of his journey. He was loved and cherished by his family and friends. He would say to us: Be kind, be caring, help when and where you can, be generous. Our time on this earth is short - make it worthwhile - remember me - plant a tree. There will be a private family memorial service at a later date. In Loving Memory of Chase Willard I'M FREE Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call: I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way; I found my place at the close of day. If my parting has left a void Then fill it with remembered joys. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too shall miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow: I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savoured much; Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch. Perhaps my life seemed all too brief: Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me; God wanted me now, He set me free.