San Antonio, TX, July 26, 2025
News Summary
Dr. Darrell Willerson, a dedicated physician and loving family man from San Antonio, has passed away. He was known for his compassionate care as an ophthalmologist and his commitment to family. Survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, Dr. Willerson leaves behind a remarkable legacy in both medicine and his community.
San Antonio, Texas – Dr. Darrell Willerson, a prominent physician and dedicated family man, passed away recently, leaving behind a significant legacy in both medicine and his close-knit family. He was known for his compassionate care as an ophthalmologist and his commitment to supporting his loved ones through various life events. He is survived by his wife Susie, two sons, and two grandsons who will honor his memory.
Born to two physicians, Dr. Eleanor Townsend Willerson and Dr. William Darrell Willerson Sr., Darrell was raised in a family deeply rooted in the medical profession. His grandfather was a pioneering doctor who visited patients by horse and buggy, while his father was a respected general practitioner in San Antonio. His brother also followed in the family tradition as a respected cardiologist. This strong family legacy influenced Darrell’s own career trajectory, fostering his passion for medicine from a young age.
Dr. Willerson excelled academically, being named both Battalion Commander and Valedictorian at The San Antonio Academy. He graduated at the top of his class from The Texas Military Institute and later attended the University of Texas on a tennis scholarship, where he earned four letters for his athletic achievements. He was heavily involved in campus life as a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and was named ‘Foreman’ of the honorary student organization, Texas Cowboys.
Dr. Willerson earned his MD from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in 1967, followed by residencies and fellowships at distinguished institutions, including Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta and the University of California at San Francisco. His dedication extended to his service as a Major in the Army Medical Corps during the Vietnam War, where he worked on malaria vaccines.
In 1970, he married Sue Madeline Desanders on Valentine’s Day, a partnership built on love and mutual support. He became a devoted father, actively engaged in the lives of his sons, Trey and Jim, and later a cherished grandfather to grandsons Dare and Hale. Darrell was known for spending quality time with his grandchildren, participating in activities such as fishing and celebrating their special milestones like birthdays and sporting events. He affectionately referred to his grandsons using the nickname “Bubby,” a term passed down from his brother.
Professionally, Darrell specialized in complicated retinal surgeries in San Antonio, establishing a successful practice while remaining closely connected to his community. He was known for his urgent medical assistance to friends and family in times of need, exemplifying his calm demeanor and dedication to caring for others.
Even after retiring, Dr. Willerson maintained a routine of visiting his wife, Susie, who was battling Alzheimer’s. His loyalty shone through as he adapted his daily life to offer her the support she needed, even during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He remained involved in the medical community, being a member of the San Antonio Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology Association and the Bexar County Medical Association.
Dr. Willerson is predeceased by several family members, including his parents and siblings. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to various medical and educational institutions. A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on August 11, 2025, at Christ Episcopal Church, followed by a reception at Club Giraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was Dr. Darrell Willerson known for?
- Dr. Darrell Willerson was known for his contributions to ophthalmology, his dedication to family, and his support for friends and relatives in need of medical assistance.
- When and where will the Celebration of Life for Dr. Willerson take place?
- The Celebration of Life is scheduled for August 11, 2025, at Christ Episcopal Church, followed by a reception at Club Giraud.
- How can people honor Dr. Willerson’s memory?
- In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to various medical and educational institutions.
- Who are the surviving family members of Dr. Willerson?
- Dr. Willerson is survived by his wife Susie, sons Trey and Jim, grandsons Dare and Hale, and several other relatives.
Summary of Key Features of Dr. Willerson’s Life
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Not specified |
| Career | Ophthalmologist specializing in retinal surgeries |
| Education | MD from University of Texas Southwestern Medical School |
| Military Service | Major in Army Medical Corps during Vietnam War |
| Spouse | Sue Madeline Desanders |
| Survived by | Wife, two sons, and two grandsons |
| Legacy | Contribution to medicine, family commitment, community involvement |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Dr. William Darrell Willerson Jr.
- Wikipedia: Ophthalmology
- Legacy: Adelina Flores Obituary
- Google Search: San Antonio Ophthalmologist
- Dallas Morning News: Alice Desanders Obituary
- Google Scholar: Texas Medical Institutions
- Dignity Memorial: James Willerson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
- Legacy: Bettie Driver Obituary
- Google News: Bexar County Medical Association
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
