Willard David Varley Jr.

Willard David Varley, Jr. 78, of Merritt passed away Sunday, October 26, 2025, at home surrounded by his family.

David’s life was defined by a sense of duty, honor, and service. Born March 4, 1947, in Sewickley, PA, he served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War after graduating high school.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, especially while outdoors hunting and fishing or viewing beautiful sunsets from his dock on the Bay River. He and his wife settled in Merritt after retirement and found much joy in serving God and the community through Stonewall Methodist Church and local organizations, such as Fishes and Loaves and Meals on Wheels in Pamlico County.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Willard David “Bill” and Mabel Varley; brother, Douglas Varley; parents-in-law, Lawrence and Lillie Rackley; brothers-in-law, Shelton Rackley, Sherrell Rackley, and Milton Elks; and other loved ones.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; son, Chris Varley and wife, Carolyn; daughter, Lora Bleacher and husband, Jake; grandchildren, Greyson Varley and Lillie and Jack Bleacher; brother, Robb Varley and sister-in-law, Patty; sister, Nan Gilbert and husband, Jim; sisters-in-law, Elaine Varley, Gloria Elks, and Sylvia Rackley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service to honor David’s life will be held on Wednesday, October the 29th beginning at 11:00 am at the Lakeside Chapel at Greenleaf Memorial Park, New Bern, North Carolina, with military honors.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, October 28th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Daniels-Sadler Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, family and friends may choose to donate to Pamlico County Fishes and Loaves at PCFLO, Inc., PO Box 771, Oriental, NC 28571, in his memory.