Doris Willows Obituary, Death – The demise of Doris T. Willows, age 94, occurred this past Saturday when she was surrounded by her devoted family, and the officers and personnel of the fire company wish to express their deepest condolences to the Willows family. Beginning with her devoted husband Lawrence “Moose” Willows, whose rise through the ranks of the fire department led to his appointment as Chief in 1972, Doris and her family have a long history of service in the fire company. Doris also contributed to the company in her own unique way by serving in the New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1 Ladies Auxiliary, which she joined in the year 1960 and was a member of until the day she passed away. She was also the President of the Auxiliary for a while during her stay with the organization.
She is survived by six children, thirteen grandchildren, six granddaughters-in-law, and ten great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind six grandchildren-in-law. The importance that Doris and Moose placed on giving back to the community is something that has been passed down through their family and is still practiced today.
Her son Lawrence “Skip” Willows, Jr., served as Chief of the Department from 1980 to 1981, and her son Rich Willows currently holds the position of Chief of the Department. William, the second son, was also a member of the department and served for a number of years.
Both of the woman’s daughters, Ginny (Wolfe) and Peggy (McSharar), have been active members of the Ladies Auxiliary for a significant amount of time, with Peggy currently holding the position of President. John McSharar, Peggy’s husband, has also been a member of the fire company for a very long time. He is currently serving as a Trustee, and in addition to that, he is the secretary for the New City Board of Fire Commissioners.
In addition, two of Doris’ grandsons have served their time in the police force. Rich Willows Jr. is currently a member, and his brother Matt is a previous active member who has since transitioned to the social membership category. Her granddaughter Jen is another individual who is a part of the Ladies Auxiliary. On Wednesday, December 7, from 4 until 8 o’clock in the evening, there will be a viewing held at the Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home in New City.
On Thursday, December 8 at 11 in the morning, there will be a memorial service for Doris conducted at the Higgins Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Doris’s name to the New City Fire Engine Co. No. 1, located at 15 Maple Avenue, New City, New York 10956. As they go through this challenging time, the Willows family would appreciate it if you could keep them in your thoughts and prayers.