Willa Kay Lau, 78, of Hanover, PA, passed away on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at UPMC Hanover Hospital. Born on October 22, 1946, in Hanover, she was the daughter of the late William C. and Nadine E. (Ruhlman) Primmer.

Willa was the beloved wife to Rodney Ray Lau, to whom she was married until his passing on October 17, 2019. Together, they built a life full of love and cherished memories.

A vibrant soul, Willa lived her life to the fullest, embracing each day with joy and enthusiasm. She was a beloved friend to many, known for her infectious spirit, kindness, and her ability to make everyone feel special. Her deep love for her family and friends was evident in everything she did, and all who knew her loved her in return.

Willa earned her associate's degree and worked as a store manager in the snack food retail industry, where she was respected for her dedication and leadership. Her warmth, generosity, and sense of humor left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to cross her path.

In her free time, Willa was an avid reader. She loved books. She also enjoyed spending a great deal of time at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center, known lovingly to locals as "The Eich".

Willa is survived by two children, her son Richard B. Hess, Jr. and wife Sheila of Las Vegas, NV, and her daughter Leah Yingling and husband Tim "Tonka" Yingling of Littlestown, PA, two grandchildren, Stephanie Christian and husband Tommy of Sandusky, OH, and Kristan Hargett of Las Vegas, and one great-grandson, J.T. Christian. She also leaves behind her brother, Charles W. and wife Lida (Sterner) Primmer, her niece Michelle Jameson and husband Dann of Bellevue, NE, her nephew Jeff Primmer and wife Katie of Carver, Minnesota, and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews. In addition to her husband, Rodney, Willa was preceded in death by her sister-in-law Patricia A. Primmer.

Following cremation, services will be private at the convenience of the family.

The Wetzel Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 549 Carlisle Street, Hanover, PA 17331, has been entrusted by the family with the arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.WetzelFuneralHome.com.