He spent his childhood in Afton with his granddaddy, then he moved back to Charlottesville. He quit school and started working when he was 14, trying construction, HVAC work, and upholstery. (He even made a wedding dress!) He also trained as a jockey, but he had trouble keeping his weight at 85 pounds. He served his country in Laos during the Vietnam War. His discovery of auto body work was his magic moment, and he devoted his attention and love to reviving the lost beauty of vintage cars.

He was married to Brenda Haney for many years, and they had a son, Dale. The family moved to Rockbridge County to be near his parents.

Willie played a significant role in the construction of the Back Creek Dam in Bath County, running the maintenance and body shop for all the heavy equipment used there. All those giant trucks and loaders just increased his passion for classic cars, and he devoted his life after Back Creek to his, and others’, collections. During this time, Dale worked with him in the body shop. Dale’s death in a motorcycle accident in 2002 was a tremendous loss to him. His daughter, Alethea, was born in 1995 and was a source of great joy for him.

Willie had a great sense of humor and a warm heart for those in trouble, and he always supported the little guy. He had an amazing memory and a practical knowledge of many skills, such as building, hunting, gardening, and plumbing. He loved learning new things, and he had many devoted friends.

Willie is survived by his second child, Alethea Vest. He will be sorely missed by many far and wide. A memorial NG