Ray Willis, 88, of Winnie, died Saturday, September 18, 2010, at Winnie Community Hospital. Born October 18, 1922, in Itasca, Texas to Letha Hurlock Willis and Floyd Willis; Ray had been a resident of Winnie most of his life.
He was a United States Army Veteran having served in World War II. Ray trained with B-25’s and traveled with the 340th Bombardment Group to the Mediterranean Theater where he was assigned to the 9th Air Force. He was in combat and flew many missions; and also received numerous commendations including the Purple Heart.
After the war, Ray received his Master’s degree from Baylor University and began a teaching career. Ray taught school in Brownfield, Midland, and Hillsboro. In 1959, he came to East Chambers Independent School District in Winnie; where he served as Junior High School Principal, High School Principal, and Superintendent at East Chambers until his retirement in 1982.
His most favorite pastimes include visiting and renewing friendships with his former students.
Ray is survived by his wife, Beatrice Dean Willis of Winnie; son, Matthew Ray Willis of Austin; daughter, Donna Willis Brown and her husband Charles Matthew of Zionsville, Indiana; three grandchildren, Julia Brown, and Evan Brown both of Zionsville, Indiana and Willis Brown of the Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs; and two nieces.
He was preceded in death by two children, Donald Richard Willis and Jackie Dale Willis; a sister; and a brother.
His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 21, 2010, at First United Methodist Church, Winnie-Stowell with burial to follow at Fairview Cemetery under the direction of Broussard’s, 134 W. Buccaneer Street, Winnie. A gathering of his family and friends will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday, September 20, 2010, at Broussard’s.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to East Chambers Independent School District, General Scholarship Fund, in memory of H.R. Willis, 1955 State Highway 124, Winnie, Texas 77665.
