Candy Root

Candace “Candy” Diane Root, 68, of Amarillo, Texas, passed away on November 24, 2025.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel, 2800 Paramount, with Thacker Haynes officiating. Inurnment will follow at Dreamland Cemetery in Canyon. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Candy was born April 1, 1957, in Amarillo to William Willingham and Marilea Coats. She grew up in Amarillo, spending several formative years in Shreveport, Louisiana, with her uncle Dennis Willingham, who was like a father to her. She later returned to Amarillo, where she raised her daughter and built a life filled with love, dedication, and unforgettable memories.

Education was a lifelong pursuit for Candy, who continuously expanded her skills and expertise. She graduated from Tascosa High School, earned her paralegal certification from Denver Paralegal Institute in 1986, and became a certified legal assistant in 1988. Her passion for learning led her to additional certifications in nonprofit grant writing and medical data specialization.

She began her professional life as a legal secretary and paralegal, using her sharp mind to support those she worked with. She later brought that same dedication to the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, where she served in several roles, including her meaningful work as Executive Director of The Myelin Project. She eventually returned to paralegal work with several Amarillo firms. In her later years, she followed her love of adventure and became a travel advisor with All World Travel, a role that allowed her to share the joy of discovery with others from 2017 to 2025.

On November 4, 2001, Candy married the love of her life, Greg, and together they built 24 years of laughter, devotion, and unforgettable adventure. They were happiest with passports in hand or the motorhome packed, ready to see the world side by side. From the turquoise waters of Tahiti to trips shared with friends and family, they collected memories across more than 20 countries—each one a testament to their love of discovery and their deep love for one another. Their marriage was full of joy, humor, and an unshakeable bond that carried them through every mile of their journey.

Candy had a bold, charismatic spirit. She was fiercely loyal, wonderfully outspoken, protective of those she loved, and always eager to show people the world. Traveling with family and friends brought her true happiness, and she created countless cherished memories across the globe.

She is preceded in death by her grandson Kaiden Dodgen; her father William Willingham; her mother Marilea Coats; and her brother Billy Coats.

Candy is survived by her devoted husband, Greg Root; her sisters Cindy Morse and husband Steve, Denise Oldham, and Melody Beal; her uncle Dennis Willingham and wife Teresa; her daughter Leah Wesley and husband Kincy, and grandson Jackson Russell; her bonus sisters Cindy Getschow and husband George, Holly Schreur and husband Mike; her bonus children Richard Root, Berry Root and wife Heather and their two sons Jackson and Samuel, Alexis Ellis, and Jonathon Parker Root. She also leaves many other family members and friends who will miss her.

Candy’s life was full of love, laughter, resilience, and purpose. Her legacy lives on in the many people she cherished, the places she explored, and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.