David Willis

David Randall "Dave" Willis, 86, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2025, in South Boston, Virginia. Born on May 8, 1939, in Accomack, Virginia, Dave lived a full and vibrant life marked by dedication to his family, service to his country, and a lifelong passion for technology and the outdoors.

Dave proudly served in the United States Marine Corps as an E-3 Corporal. During his four years of honorable service, he was stationed around the world, including deployments to Korea and Japan. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and adventure that would carry through the rest of his life.

Following his military service, Dave embarked on a distinguished 35-year career with IBM as an electrical designer in North Carolina. His work reflected both his technical acumen and his love for innovation-especially anything involving computers or aviation. Even after retirement, he remained deeply engaged with technology, often immersing himself in flight simulators and exploring new software with enthusiasm.

Dave's personal life was rich with love and laughter. He was a devoted husband to Shirley Willis of Buffalo Junction, VA, whose memory he cherished deeply. As a father and stepfather, he leaves behind a legacy of warmth and guidance that continues through his children: Deborah D. Willis of Buffalo Junction, VA; Angela F. Willis (husband Dan George) of Winnabow, NC; David Christopher Willis (wife Tracy Willis) of Redding, CA; Sherry Warf (husband Clay Ward) of Apex, NC; J. Todd Trivette (wife Dee Trivette) of Bethesda, MD; and Larissa Harris (husband Brad Harris) of Brunswick, GA.

He was also a proud grandfather to David Willis and Samuel George of Winnabow, NC; Moriah Willis, David Jacob Willis, and Benjamin Willis of Redding, CA; Adrianna Clement McCoury (husband Grant McCoury) of Fort Mill, SC; Brenna Harris and Brady Harris of Brunswick, GA.

Dave is survived by his siblings Johnny Willis of Holly Springs, NC; Sue Wylie (husband Dave Wiley) of Cary, NC; Steve Willis of NC; and Mary Bess Beerman (husband Scott Beerman) of Cary, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents Malcomb and Bessie Willis of Cary, NC; his beloved wife Shirley Willis; and stepson Max Jones of Kenansville, NC.

A man who found joy in simple pleasures as well as grand adventures, Dave loved spending time at the lake or at his campground surrounded by nature. He was an avid camper who enjoyed swimming and walking outdoors. Holidays were especially meaningful to him-times when family gathered close and memories were made. His love for animals was evident throughout his life as he cared deeply for his pets.

Those who knew Dave will remember him for his humor and warmth-a funny and loving father who brought light into every room he entered. He was physically active well into later years and never lost his curiosity about the world around him. Whether reading voraciously or traveling to new places with family by his side, Dave embraced life fully.

His family has been forever shaped by his presence-his wisdom as a father figure, the strength he showed as a husband and brother-and they will miss him dearly.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to two causes close to Dave's heart: the Clarksville SPCA- https://www.lakecountryspca.org/ and The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

May David Randall "Dave" Willis be remembered always for the love he gave so freely and the legacy he leaves behind-a life well-lived in service to others and filled with enduring joy.