DAVID WILLIS
was the third child of five children born to Russell and Gertrude Signal Willis on December 3, 1935, in New Richmond, Ohio. He was a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Bro. Willis was united in holy matrimony to Shirley Johnson Willis on January 25, 1959. To this union, two daughters were born, Bettye Joyce Willis and Rhonda Jean Willis Gafford.
He was a member of Christ Temple Cathedral, Church of Christ “Holiness” USA, 1923 South Arch Street., Little Rock, Ark., having confessed his hope in Christ at an early age. Bro. Willis served as a Deacon, Trustee and Church Treasurer until failing health prevented him from attending church on a regular basis.
Bro. Willis retired from the U.S. Air Force as Chief Master Sargeant after 20 years of service. Following retirement he worked for the Department of Veteran’s Affairs, John L. McClelland Medical Center for 25 years, retiring as Assistant Hospital Administrator.
Bro. Willis was preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley J. Willis; his parents; and four siblings.
He leaves to cherish many fond and loving memories his two daughters, Bettye J. Willis of Little Rock, Ark., and Rhonda Willis Gafford (Jeffery) of Shreveport, La.; four grandchildren, Danielle A. Harris of Little Rock, Ark., Jared L. Gafford (Vashonda) of Hurlburt Field, Fla., Trae A. Gafford of Irving, Texas, and Aaran L. C. Gafford of Baton Rouge, La.; five great-grandchildren, Adriana A. Bibbs and Haylee M. Bibbs of Little Rock, Ark., Jackson, Ayelet, and Jefferson Gafford of Hurlburt Field, Fla.; one devoted sisterin-law, Mrs. Bettye J. Brooks of Little Rock, Ark.; his niece (like a daughter), Attorney Marva J. Davis; two nephews (like sons), Pastor Marvin E. Davis (Emma) of Gary, Ind., and Dr. Terry W. Brooks (Monique) of San Diego, Calif.; a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, other family, and close friends.
Family Hour Wednesday, 6-7 p.m. at Robinson Mortuary, Little Rock. Life Celebration Thursday, 1 p.m., at Christ Temple Cathedral. Burial Friday, 11 a.m., at Arkansas State Veteran Cemetery, North Little Rock. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 1201 Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Little Rock, Ark. 501-371-0111. “A Service You Can Trust.”