James Lee Willis was born March 28, 1960 to John E. Willis and Ethel Lee Tucker in Chicago, Illinois. He departed this life on August 2, 2024, at the age of 63 in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Mertier Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.
Shortly after graduating from St. Margaret of Scotland High school (1970 – 1974), James joined Job Core, and later studied at the University of Iowa. James had a life dedicated to service. He provided service at two men’s shelters, one being Manager at Porchlight men’s shelter, Madison Wisconsin. James accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, and entered into the Lord’s bosom.
James never married, and had no children. He was a very serious person with a great sense of humor. James was a true friend, with a loving heart. James loved his mother dearly. Even as his life drew to the end he was concerned for the care and provision for his Mother.
James leaves to cherish his memory, His siblings: Deborah Farrier Lane (Pete), Ronald Willis, Stephanie Hatchett, Ondre Willis, and Shelvin Willis. His immediate nieces and nephews.
Correspondingly there is a host of loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends who will miss his entertaining conversation, cheery demeanor, and generous loving heart.
“Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” John 16:22