Obituary of Martha Laverne Geilker Willoughby

Martha Laverne Geilker Willoughby, 92, of Winter Haven, Fl went home to be with the Lord August 31,2023 with family by her side. Born February 17, 1931 in Columbus, Indiana to Garah L. and Mabel Hubbard Geilker. Laverne married Noah Baldwin (N. B.) Willoughby August 14, 1948. They moved to Florida in 1953 where she continued to grow as a mom, homemaker and secretary to her husband in their family business of trucking, paving and excavation. Her first love was to serve the Lord in whatever capacity he wanted her, whether it be teaching a Sunday School Class, floral arranging or most importantly, praying for her family and others. She was an avid reader of her Bible and current events. Laverne is preceded in death by her husband of 64 years N. B. Willoughby, brothers; Paul, Jack, and Dickie Leland Geilker; sister, Betty D. Dietz and son-in-law, Mark Whisler. She is survived by sons, Mickey (Susan) Willoughby of Neptune Beach, Fl., Tommy (JoLynn) Willoughby of Davenport, Fl., and daughter Debra Whisler of Winter Haven. Her sister, Mildred Elkins and brother, Larry Geilker of Columbus, Indiana; 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM Monday, October 23, 2023 at Landmark Baptist Church in Haines City, Fl with her final resting place at Garland Brooke Cemetery Columbus, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mission Fund at Landmark Baptist Church/ Mission Fund, 2020 Hinson Ave., Haines City, FL 33844