Lloyd Willis

Lloyd Willis

Lloyd E. Willis, aged 99, peacefully departed from this world to join the presence of the Lord on September 9, 2023. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a remarkable man whose legacy will forever be cherished by his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey and Ida Willis, and his first wife of 43 years, Marjorie Green Willis. He also joins his brothers, Lawrence and Arthur Robert Willis of Escondido, CA, and sisters, Valerie Middleton of Montrose, CO, and Virginia Smith-Gore of Damascus, MD.

Lloyd is survived by his loving wife, Esther, of Colonial Beach, VA, and his devoted sons, Dr. Norman (Eileen) Willis of Portland, OR, and Kirt (Jeanette) Willis of Bellevue, WA. He is also survived by his step-sons, Jonathon Vermillion of Golden, CO, Theodore (Barbara) Rothman of Great Mills, MD, and Timothy (Tracy) Rothman of El Dorado, CA. Lloyd leaves behind a rich legacy with 16 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. He was also a cherished foster father to Ian Moog and leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces.

Lloyd's thirst for knowledge led him to attend schools in Maryland, Michigan, and California. He graduated with an AA degree from Palomar Community College, San Marcos, CA, and achieved an honor graduate status, receiving a BA degree in Urban Studies from the University of California, Riverside. Additionally, he earned his pilot's license in Lansing, MI in 1946.

During World War II, Lloyd served with valor in the Army Paratroops as a squad leader and test jumper of experimental parachutes from 1942 to 1945, with assignments in Panama, Canal Zone, and the Philippines. He was recalled to active duty in 1950 with the 40th Infantry Division, serving as a platoon sergeant in Japan and Korea. His dedication to duty earned him numerous medals and awards. In recent years, Lloyd and Esther remained active with the 551st PI Association and the 542nd Airborne Command.

Lloyd retired as City Manager in Chehalis, WA, in 1988, following prior administrative positions as City Manager in San Marcos, CA, Assistant to the City Manager in Escondido, CA, and Unit Administrator for the California National Guard. He also served as a dedicated police officer.

Throughout his life, Lloyd was an active member of numerous organizations, including the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, where he held the title of Past Exalted Ruler and life member. He served two consecutive terms as Post Commander of American Legion Post 149 in Escondido, CA, and was a life member of American Legion Post 148 in Colonial Beach, VA. Additionally, he was a Life Member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10574 in Colonial Beach, VA, and served as Past President of Kiwanis International Division 37 in California. Lloyd also played an active role in various community organizations, including Economic Development Council and the Chamber of Commerce in Chehalis, WA. He was a recipient of the President's Volunteer Service Award and was a former member of the Chehalis/Centralia Airport Board. Lloyd also served as a volunteer for the American Red Cross during federal disasters in Chehalis, WA. He was a dedicated and active member of Oak Grove Baptist Church.

A funeral service to celebrate Lloyd's life will be held at 11 a.m. on September 19, 2023, at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Oak Grove, VA. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place at St. Peter's Cemetery in Oak Grove, VA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Gentiva Hospice, c/o Gentiva Foundation, 3350 Riverwood Pkwy SE, Suite 1400, Atlanta, GA 30339.

Storke Funeral Home, Colonial Beach, has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. Online condolences may be shared at www.storkefuneralhome.com.