It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Veronica "Roni" Willard, 67, a vibrant soul known for her irrepressible spirit and joy for life, Roni passed peacefully with family by her side, on December 30, 2024, due to complications from COPD, at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton.
Born in Montague, Massachusetts, on October 8, 1957, to Stephanie Delia (Lascore) Starr and Richard R. Willard, Jr., and raised lovingly in Northampton by Stephanie and Robert E. Starr, Sr., Roni was a force of nature from the start. With a laugh that could light up a room and a sense of humor that was equally infectious, she navigated life with a twinkle in her eye and a readiness for the next adventure which lent itself beautifully to the many Customer Service jobs she held in the Valley.
Roni graduated from High School in 1976, attending St. Michael’s and Northampton High School, and proudly served in the US Army.
She was the quintessential party girl, never shying away from a good time, and always the first to crack a bawdy joke. Her love for motorcycles was matched only by her impressive collection of elephant statues and collectables, which she pursued with passion for many years.
More than anything, Roni was a woman with a big, loving heart. Her warmth and friendliness knew no bounds and she cherished her family above all. A strong and loving bond was shared by Roni and her daughter Nichole and grandson Anthony. They both meant the world to her, and she loved them “bunches and bunches.”
Roni is lovingly remembered by her mother Stephanie Starr, her daughter Nichole J. Follett, and Nichole’s father Stephen Follett, with whom Roni remained close, her siblings, Robert E. Starr, Jr., and his wife Elizabeth of Easthampton, Lynn M. Starr and her husband Michael Lachapelle of Southampton, and Pamela A. Starr Scott and her husband Ronald of Deerfield. She also leaves her beloved grandson, Anthony Follett, nieces and nephews Peter St. Laurence, Stephanie St. Laurence, Michael T. Scott and Jillian E. Scott, her Aunt Debbie Vuerich, and several cousins. She was predeceased by family members, Robert E. Starr, Sr. and sister Wendy A. (Willard) Morrey. Roni's legacy of laughter and love leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her.
"Ride on, Roni, with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. You will be deeply missed, always loved, but never forgotten."
The family wishes to thank the Cooley Dickinson Hospital and the CCU Staff for their gentle and caring support.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the VA in Florence, Massachusetts in Roni's memory, an organization close to her heart.
We will honor a life lived fully, freely, and with an abundance of love as we share our favorite memories, and the countless moments of happiness Roni brought into our world. Join us in bidding her farewell at a Celebration of Life on Wednesday, January 29th at 3 pm, the Pulaski Club, 79 Maple Street, Easthampton, MA.