William "Bill" Willis Jr.

William P. "Bill" Willis Jr. departed from this life on December 26, 2025 at his favorite place on Earth with his loving wife. He was known for his kind heart, intelligence, generosity, and devotion to those he cared for most. Those who knew him remember his thoughtful nature, strong sense of responsibility, and his willingness to be there when others needed him.
A man of exceptional intellect, William's commitment to education was evident in his achievements. He graduated from Northeastern State University with degrees in Business Administration and Economics, supported by his participation and success on the debate team where he earned many debate trophies for OU and Northeastern State University. William's persuasive eloquence and analytical mind led him to pursue law, earning his Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa College of Law in 1974.
William's professional life was marked by his dedication to the practice of law and his profound impact on the community. From 1975 to 2009, he served in various capacities, including as an attorney with Baker and Willis; Floyd, Brandenberg and Willis, and later at his own firm, Willis Law Office. His expertise and guidance as general counsel benefited numerous organizations, including the Cherokee Nation Housing Authority, Liberty State Bank, the United Keetowah Band Housing Authority, the Northeast Oklahoma Public Facilities Authority, the Cherokee County Home Finance Authority, Cherokee County Economic Development Authority, Tahlequah Development Authority, Wagoner County Economic Development Authority, Adair County Home Finance Authority, and the Rural Water District No. 8 in Cherokee County, Oklahoma. He also rendered opinions on over 1 billion dollars in municipal bonds, he was lead attorney on over 100,000 million dollars in bonds, and he wrote a $225,000,000 million dollar bond for the grand River Damn Authority, as well as served on the Board of the Pryor Industrial Park. His leadership and vision helped shape the future of the region, contributing to the growth and prosperity of his beloved community.
Beyond his professional endeavors, William was deeply involved in civic duties. He held esteemed positions such as trustee, vice-chairman, and chairman of the Oklahoma Ordinance Works Authority. His service on the United States Selective Service Board and as a member of the Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce board of directors demonstrated his commitment to serving others.
Family and friends were central to William's life. He cherished time spent with his Rosie (Coach as he referred to her) at their family farm on the Illinois River. He felt at peace while rocking on the front porch watching his birds. He took great pride in watching his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews growing over the years. William was an avid sportsman and angler. William would say "Fishing is my favorite hobby–after you! (Rosie)" William had many friendships throughout the years that brought him great joy. William loved hosting get-togethers on his back deck overlooking the Illinois River for friends and family. His presence brought comfort and reassurance, and his guidance will continue to be felt by those he leaves behind.
William was preceded in death by his father, William P. "Bill" Willis Sr.; mother Zelma Bynum-Willis; sister, Billie Willis-Crosslin, and his brother, Herbert (Herbie) Bynum Willis.
He is survived by the love of his life, Rose, of the home in Kansas, OK; children, William P. "Trae" Willis III and wife Heather of Briggs, OK, and Alisha Willis-McCraken and husband Phillip of Farmington, AR; siblings, Diane J. Willis, Joyce G. Willis of Tahlequah, Zelma Willis Hayes and husband Sherman of Tahlequah, and Haskell Doak Willis of Tahlequah; his grandchildren Jaden Diane Willis, Barrett Alan Hall, and Scarlett Diane Hall; and many nieces and nephews.
William will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. His life made a meaningful impact, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.