John Henry Willis' Obituary
John Henry Willis was born on February 6, 1931 to the late Eliza Mills and John Thomas Willis in Delstack, Missouri. He was one of four children. John, affectionately call Billy by his family passed away peacefully at the Jackson County Medical Care Facility on Monday, May 1, 2023.
He served in the United States Army from September 1952 to September 1954 in the Korean War Conflict. He relocated to Los Angeles, California a few years later and was employed in various custodian positions. While living in Los Angeles, John united in marriage to the late Brenda McChristian. From this union he became the proud father of two daughters, Toria Sanders and Tralonda Riggins, and stepdaughter Thanya Daniels.
John continued his residence in California and married the late Virginia Willis. He relocated to Jackson Michigan to live with his sister after the death of his second wife. He often traveled to Indianapolis after relocating to Michigan to visit his daughters and grandchildren. Sharing his loving qualities in life of being compassionate, kind and of a giving spirit. He truly enjoyed spending this time with his family, especially the grandchildren.
John was a member of the American Legion Sauk Trail Post. He loved watching the morning game shows, court TV in the afternoon and sports games in the evenings. Other pastime favorites included doing yardwork, cooking, driving (until age 91) and eating plenty of sweet snacks and treats.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Eliza Mills; father, John Thomas Willis; wives, Brenda McChristian and Virginia Willis; siblings, Johnny Brooks, Mary Willis, and Liza Robinson.
He leaves to cherish his fond memories; daughters; Toria (Pete) Sanders and Tralonda Riggins; stepdaughter; Thanya (Paul) Daniels, six beloved granddaughters; Teah, Tiara, Danielle, Aunye’, Ebony and Tiesha and one beloved grandson; VaSean; 8 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren; special niece; Arlene Robinson, nephew; Bobby Thompkins and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?

