Charles L. WILLIS Sr.

SUFFOLK - Charles Leonard Willis Sr., loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday morning, Sept. 29, 2010, after a 2-year battle with mesothelioma.
A lifelong Virginian, Leonard was born in The Hollow, a small mountain community in Patrick County. He later moved to Portsmouth where he met Loretta, his beautiful bride of 57 years. Leonard and Loretta moved to Suffolk in 1964 where they raised their family.
Leonard held a math degree from Old Dominion University, was a Professional Engineer, and an expert in Ship Construction/Repair and Contracts Negotiation. Although he was a self-made successful businessman and community leader, Leonard always thought his biggest achievement was his wonderful family.
He was active in his community, serving as past presidents of the Old Dominion Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, C.E. & H. Ruritan Club, and North Suffolk Rotary Club. Leonard was also active in Cub Scout Pack 43 in Crittenden/Eclipse.
Leonard is survived by his beloved wife, Loretta; three sons, Charles Leonard Willis Jr. (and his wife, Angel), Larry Michael Willis (and his wife, Debby), Leslie Willis (and his wife, Cyndee); three grandsons, Kyle Michael Willis (and his wife, Nicole), Benjamin Jordan Willis, and Charles Leonard Willis III; three granddaughters, Alexandra Willis Saxton (and her husband, Ben), Courtney Michelle Willis and Logan Alexandra Willis; two stepgrandsons, Kyle Matthews and Dylan Matthews; mother, Iris Willis; three brothers, Lowell Willis, Wayne Willis and Lloyd Willis; two sisters, Loretta Marshall and Lucille Willis; and many nieces and nephews.
There will be a private celebration of Leonard's life.
Donations may be made in his memory to Riverside Hospice Fund (757-534-7070) or Duke Cancer Fund (919-667-2609).
Baker-Foster Funeral Home is serving the family. Online condolences can be made at www.bakerfoster.com. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.