The Willetts family with the children they lost over ten years before their own tragedy, posted on July 30, 2026. | Source: Facebook/Fuller Royal
He later attended East Carolina University and was studying at Pitt Community College when he died. Just over a year later, Stephen and Tracey lost their younger son.
Colby died on March 14, 2014, at 21 after living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. His parents were beside him at home when he died. His obituary said Stephen and Tracey held him for the final time as he passed.
Stephen and Tracey Willetts pose for a photo in front of their truck carrying paddleboards posted on July 17, 2024. | Source: Facebook/Tracey Parker Willetts
The tribute described Colby as someone who dealt with persistent physical limitations and discomfort without complaining about his condition. Even toward the end of his life, the obituary said, Colby remained concerned about the effect his death would have on those around him.
He was remembered for his courtesy, gratitude, wit, and ability to make other people comfortable around someone living with a disability. As a child, Colby was also known for his understanding of world events and a logical outlook that could hold the attention of adults.
His Service Dog Stayed Beside Him for Years
For the final nine and a half years of his life, Colby had a golden retriever service dog named Teva. His family believed the connection between the two was so strong that they sometimes appeared to understand each other without an obvious signal.
As Colby’s physical health declined, he became increasingly concerned about who would look after Teva. His described that concern as consistent with the way he thought about others.
Stephen and Tracey wrote that raising Colby had brought them tremendous happiness and taught them lessons they expected to carry throughout their lives. Tracey continued sharing photographs of both sons on social media in the years that followed.
