Robert Willis

Robert D. Willis was born Feb. 18, 1951, in Hughes, Ark., to the parents of J.D. Willis and Mary (Roland) Cox.

Robert graduated high school in Hughes, Ark. He then went on to proudly served in the United States Navy. After his medical discharge he relocated to Benton Harbor, Mich., where he started out at Auto Specialties Manufacturing Co., and worked for five years. He retired from Consumer/Rieth-Riley Construction company where he worked for more than 40 years.

Robert was known for his willingness to always give. He loved bowling, fishing, traveling, dancing and he loved riding around town with his wife listening to music.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife, Deloris Willis of Benton Harbor; brother, Clayton (Pearlie) Willis of Byron, Ga.; son, Robert D. Willis Jr. of Benton Harbor; daughter, Necole (Willis) Tucker of Indianapolis; two stepdaughters, Taneshia Washington of Benton Harbor, Shawanda Kwofie of Lawrenceville, Ga.; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, J.D. Willis and Mary (Roland) Cox; five brothers; two sisters; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

A special thanks to Cecil/Chineater and Tom.

A visitation with Robert's family will take place on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at the Starks and Menchinger Chapel (2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085) from noon to 1 p.m., with a service taking place at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Crystal Springs Cemetery in Benton Harbor. Feel free to share a memory with the family on their online tribute wall at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Ending message: Even though my journey here has ended, I leave you with memories to cherish, love to keep giving and a life to keep living. Do not cry for me, God called me home, to a place of rest and this is not "Goodbye." This is see you later.