Willa Jean Sagraves

Willa Jean (Ferguson) Sagraves, 91, of Springfield, Ohio, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at her daughter's home surrounded by loving family. She was born on May 18, 1932, in Flat Gap, Kentucky, the daughter of the late Cossie F. Ferguson and Minnie G. (Skaggs) Ferguson. On March 18, 1953, Willa Jean married the love of her life, the late Elwin E. Sagraves, to whom she was married for nearly 65 years. She is survived by a daughter, Beverly (Michael) McConnell, Bethesda, Ohio; a daughter-in-law, Rhonda Sagraves, South Vienna; grandchildren and great grandchildren; Benjamin (Libby) Sagraves, Lilly and Greyson; Brian (Stephanie) Sagraves, Noah, Caden, and Gavin; Joshua (Elizabeth) Collins, Willa, Elias, and Emory; Laura (Dustin) Marinucci, Lyra, Luca, and Ihly; Abby (Marcus) Stenger and Collins; sister, Anna Bell Williams, 3 brothers; Larry (Jan) Sparks, Farrell (Sharon) Sparks, Bill (Carolyn) Sparks, numerous nieces and nephews; and a very special friend, Julie Zuefle. In addition to her parents, Willa Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Elwin E. Sagraves, son, Gregory Sagraves, brothers, Eugene, Joseph Alonzo, John Haden Chester Ferguson, and sister, Gloria Darleen Ross. Willa Jean was converted as a teenager and was a 50+ years member of Straight Creek Enterprise Baptist Church faithfully serving as a deacon's wife. She retired from National City Bank in 1990. Following retirement and after assisting her husband to build their vacation home near their church, she enjoyed a great deal of time on Straight Creek Road entertaining friends and loved ones. Willa Jean lived a Godly life and was a humble, selfless woman who devoted her time to her church, family, and friends. She loved to quilt, crochet, cook, and read, but most of all, she loved to sing hymns. While attending church, it was not uncommon for someone to request a song from her. She was truly given a gift from God and sang from her heart whether it was at church or home. She also enjoyed all the little ones who entered her life. Some of her happiest times were holding a baby, toddler, child, or even a “big kid” on her lap. She truly cherished those memories. Willa Jean will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Adkins Funeral Home, Enon, will be assisting Willa's family with her final wishes. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 13th from 5 to 8pm and funeral services will be held Thursday, December 14th at 11am with Pastor Henry Ward officiating. The location of visitation and services will be Harmony Missionary Baptist Church, 2808 Derr Rd., Springfield, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to Valley Hospice, 10686 State Route 150, Rayland, Ohio 43943 or Straight Creek Enterprise Baptist Church, c/o Rob Helton, 2150 Laurel Ridge Rd., Piketon, Ohio 45661.

Willa Jean Sagraves

May 18, 2023 - December 10, 2023