Willis James Collick

Mr. Willis “Bill” James Collick, age 86, passed away after a lengthy illness in North Highlands, California on Thursday, September 26, 2024. Willis was born November 22, 1937, in Girdletree, Maryland to the late Elijah Jerry Williams, Sr. and Gladys Collick Purnell.

A gifted musician, he learned to play organ and piano by ear at an early age and loved to sing. After graduating from Worcester High School in 1955, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and completed tours of duty in The Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, England, Maryland, New York, and Nebraska. After military service retirement, he moved to California where he continued to serve in the Civil Service until retirement. During his travels, he sang in several bands to include “Bill Collick & The Arrangements” and “The Marveleers.” A consummate entertainer, he served as a deejay at several base and retiree events and was affectionately known as “Mr. Bill.” He was notorious for playing The Marvelettes song, “Don’t Mess with Bill” as his closing set. He was also known for his famous ribs and barbecue sauce that he would prepare for family and friends. Willis remained very active in the community and served as president of the British-American Reunion whose annual Las Vegas trips were attended by hundreds from around the world. He was also a member of the Tuskegee Airmen Association, Non-Commissioned Officers Association, Prince Hall Masons, The American Legion (Life Member), Moose Lodge 2357, Veterans of Foreign Wars (Life Member), and a bowling league.

He will be lovingly remembered by: his devoted wife, Gertie Collick; seven children, Gary Collick, Cheryl Collick Redden, Nardya Floyd (Garry), Derrick Collick, Robin Collick, Shannon Collick, and Chrishena Collick; two sisters Sandra Bowen and Irona Dismuke; a brother, E. Jerry Williams, Jr.; brother-n-law Robert Purnell; 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three cousins who were like siblings; Rebecca Rayne Purnell, Phyllis Rayne Purnell and Robert Rayne.