Grady Willis

Grady Willis NEWTON Grady Steven Willis was granted his angel wings Friday, Oct. 5, 2012, at Frye Regional Medical Center. His final moments were spent with his wife, daughters and other family and friends by his side, holding him close as they awaited his savior to come take him by the hand. Born May 16, 1945, he was the son of the late James Thomas Willis Sr. and Lula Mae Powell Willis. Grady was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His love for his wife, children and grandchildren was indescribable. He left wonderful memories with anyone who ever met him and his legacy will live on through them. He never missed a grandchild's ball game or dance recital. He was an avid camper and fisherman. He had a passion for driving "big rigs". He was formerly employed by Pem Kay and CommScope. He enjoyed gospel music and playing the piano. Grady leaves behind a heart-broken wife of 48 years, Nancy Jo Roseman Willis, of the home; three daughters, Lori Willis Stilwell and husband, Russell, Kim Willis Davis and husband, Trent and Dana Willis Setzer and husband, Mark; a sister, Hazel Willis Bentley and husband, Dale, of Hickory; a brother, Dale Willis and wife, Evelyn, of Newton; seven grandchildren, Steven, Chloe, Payton, Kilby, Sierra, Addisyn and Hayden; a great-grandchild, Blaze; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends who he considered family, survive him. Two brothers, James Thomas "JT" Willis, Jr. and Donald Willis preceded him in death. A celebration of Grady's Life will be held at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at the Jenkins Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Jesse Smith will officiate. The family will receive friends from 4 to 5 p.m., one hour prior to the service, in the chapel. Burial will be at a later time at Grace Lutheran Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made in memory of Grady Willis to The Landon Scronce Fund, 4766 Musket Way, Conover, NC 28613. Please sign the online guestbook at Jenkins FuneralHome.net. The Willis family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home in Newton.