1947
Jeffrey
2025
Jeffrey Willis
February 8, 1947 — May 20, 2025
Jeffrey Wayne "Jeff" Willis of Leaf River, IL, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away, peacefully, at his home on May 20, 2025, at the age of 78.
Jeff was born on February 8, 1947, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Donald and Gene (nee' Wesley) Willis.
Jeff lived a full life marked by laughter, hard work, dedication to his country and with an unwavering love for his family and friends.
Jeff was a Vietnam Veteran who proudly served in the United States Air Force. His military commitment shaped the discipline and integrity he carried throughout his life. After his service, he dedicated many years to his work as a skilled welder and pipe fitter, earning the respect and admiration of his peers for his craftsmanship and strong work ethic. In addition to his welding and pipe fitting careers, he also built and owned the Oregon Bowl in Oregon during the 80's.
He had an undeniable gift for storytelling, always ready with a tale—true or tall—that brought great joy and laughter to those around him. With a sharp wit and a playful sense of humor, Jeff could light up a room and leave everyone smiling. Whether gathered around a campfire, his dining room table or sitting on his back porch, he was the heartbeat of every gathering.
An avid outdoorsman, Jeff found great joy in hunting and being in nature. But above all, his greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father to his three children: Dawn Marie (nee' Willis) Manser of Mount Morris, IL, Jeffrey Joseph "JJ" (Megan) Willis of Greenville, SC, and Chad Jonathan (Ann) Willis of Greenville, SC. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Colton Manser of Mount Morris, IL, Hope and Branden Willis of Wilkes-Barre, PA, and Beck Willis of Greenville, SC.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Cheryl (nee' Willis) Hazen, his nephew Bryan Hazen and many good friends.
Jeff's laughter, kindness, and strength will be missed deeply by all who knew him. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, smiles, and memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of all those who loved him.
A private memorial gathering will be held by the family to honor and celebrate Jeff's life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to share a story, a laugh, or a memory in Jeff's honor—just as he would have wanted. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
Jeff was born on February 8, 1947, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Donald and Gene (nee' Wesley) Willis.
Jeff lived a full life marked by laughter, hard work, dedication to his country and with an unwavering love for his family and friends.
Jeff was a Vietnam Veteran who proudly served in the United States Air Force. His military commitment shaped the discipline and integrity he carried throughout his life. After his service, he dedicated many years to his work as a skilled welder and pipe fitter, earning the respect and admiration of his peers for his craftsmanship and strong work ethic. In addition to his welding and pipe fitting careers, he also built and owned the Oregon Bowl in Oregon during the 80's.
He had an undeniable gift for storytelling, always ready with a tale—true or tall—that brought great joy and laughter to those around him. With a sharp wit and a playful sense of humor, Jeff could light up a room and leave everyone smiling. Whether gathered around a campfire, his dining room table or sitting on his back porch, he was the heartbeat of every gathering.
An avid outdoorsman, Jeff found great joy in hunting and being in nature. But above all, his greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father to his three children: Dawn Marie (nee' Willis) Manser of Mount Morris, IL, Jeffrey Joseph "JJ" (Megan) Willis of Greenville, SC, and Chad Jonathan (Ann) Willis of Greenville, SC. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren: Colton Manser of Mount Morris, IL, Hope and Branden Willis of Wilkes-Barre, PA, and Beck Willis of Greenville, SC.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Cheryl (nee' Willis) Hazen, his nephew Bryan Hazen and many good friends.
Jeff's laughter, kindness, and strength will be missed deeply by all who knew him. He leaves behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, smiles, and memories that will continue to echo in the hearts of all those who loved him.
A private memorial gathering will be held by the family to honor and celebrate Jeff's life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to share a story, a laugh, or a memory in Jeff's honor—just as he would have wanted. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Jeffrey Willis, please visit our flower store.
Guestbook
Visits: 0
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors