Boyle, Mississippi, It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Joshua Benjamin Willoughby, affectionately known as Josh, of Boyle, MS. Josh departed this world far too soon on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, leaving behind a community that loved and cherished him deeply.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, with visitation from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 PM in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel. Josh will be laid to rest in New Cleveland Cemetery, with Reverend Park Neff officiating.
Born on August 15, 2008, in Jackson, MS, to Sarah Smith and Justin Willoughby, Josh was a shining light — a beloved son, brother, grandson, friend, and teammate. As a proud Colt at Bayou Academy, he was preparing to enter his senior year, ready to take on the world with his signature determination and heart.
Josh’s passion for life was reflected in everything he did. He was a talented athlete, excelling as a defensive end on the football team, a swimmer, and a committed soccer player. His drive for fitness extended beyond the field—he spent hours at the gym, always striving to better himself. A true animal lover, Josh worked at Delta Dog House, where his gentle nature and love for dogs made a lasting impression.
Beyond his talents and dreams—including becoming a mechanic and opening his own business—Josh was known for his simple joys: bananas, pasta, Cheerios, family time in his grandparents’ yard, watching movies, and UFC boxing. His bond with his younger sister, whom he mentored in soccer, was a reflection of his compassionate and nurturing heart.
Josh is survived by a loving family: his mother Sarah Smith, father Justin Willoughby, sisters Madison, Anna Kay, and Elizabeth Grace Goss, his brother and best friend Chris Bush, and his devoted grandparents Albert Benjamin “PopPop” Smith III, Sally Smith, Kathy Smith, and stepfather Frank Ryan Goss. His memory will also be carried by pallbearers Nathaniel Breda-Smith, Chris Bush, Russell McCain, Frank Ryan Goss, Cory Barfield, and Paxton Joe.
In honor of Josh’s love for animals, memorial donations may be made to the Bolivar County Humane Society.
The staff of Cleveland Funeral Home is humbled to serve Josh’s family during this time of heartbreak. As we gather to celebrate the remarkable young life he lived, we find solace in knowing that Josh’s caring, loving, and unbreakable spirit will remain with us always.
Josh, you were a light in the lives of so many. You will be deeply missed but never, ever forgotten.
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