Thomas Edward Willis, age 89, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, March 10, 2018.
He was born on July 23, 1928 in East Liverpool, OH, where he was raised, to the late Edwin and Mildred Stewart Willis. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Autumn Coon Willis, two brothers, Robert and Wayne Willis, one sister, Doris Barnhart.
Mr. Willis moved to Florida at a young age and moved to North Carolina in 1967. He was a building contractor for many years and pastored churches all his life. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Mr. Willis attended Anchor Baptist Church where he was very active in disaster relief efforts.
Survivors include two sons, Michael Willis and wife Nancy of Lake Toxaway and Mark Willis and wife Jeanette of Brevard; one daughter, Martha Ives of Elberta, AL; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be held at 2 PM Monday, March 12, 2018 at Anchor Baptist Church with Rev. Randy Barton and Rev. Mike Blanton officiating. Burial will be in Piney Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12–2 PM Monday at the church.
The family would like to thank the Lodge at Mills River and Tore’s Home for the loving care that they gave Mr. Willis.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Save the Children, 3232 Hendersonville Hwy., Pisgah Forest, NC 28768.
Moody-Connolly Life Celebrations is caring for the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com.