Willis Albert "Tarby" Tarver II

Willis A. “Tarby” Tarver II, a great character and storyteller, was born on September 4, 1947, in Monroe, LA at the Wright Bendel Clinic to his parents, Willis A. Tarver and Imogene Branch Tarver. He was named by his Aunt Lillian Tarver.

His earlier years were spent in rural Colorado where his parents were educators. Tarby hunted and fished in mountainous lakes where the only footprints were his own from the previous year. He studied at Adams State University in Colorado and developed a passion for clay and pottery. After he returned to Louisiana he worked for the Army Corps of Engineers.

Riding a motorcycle on Hwy 165, he was struck by a deer and was hospitalized for a month with multiple injuries. He changed careers to become a welder and opened a jewelry store in Columbia, LA.

Years later he would be struck by a log truck resulting in hospitalization again, with injuries so severe he could not put rings in his showcase.

He enjoyed creating art and became a full time potter, as it was his first love. This allowed him to travel to craft fairs across the southeast where he won many awards. When he was home, he hunted and fished, enjoying a true outdoor life.

He died peacefully at home on January 31, 2023, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Mary “Mimi” Hunnicutt Tarver; his adoring daughter, Katherine Tarver Koncinsky; son-in-law, Joel Koncinsky; 2 precious grandsons, Aiden Koncinsky & Tatum Koncinsky, whom he had just gifted their first fishing gear for Christmas; cousin, Charlie Franklin, who devoted years of love and help however possible; and a reign of dear friends and hunting buddies.

The family wishes to extend appreciation to the team at Ascend Hospice Care for the care and compassion they provided him in his passing.

Tarby chose cremation and services will be held privately in the future.