Philip Willis

1931 - 2024

Philip Jastram Willis

Philip Jastram Willis of Jamestown, Rhode Island, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 12th, 1931, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Gladys Pete Johanna Peterson and Raymond Trask Willis, Phil's life was one of dedication, love, and countless memorable moments.

Phil is survived by his devoted wife of over seventy years, Norma Byers Willis, whom he married on June 14, 1953, at St. John's Church in Saunderstown, Rhode Island. Together, they raised a family that brought them immeasurable joy: four children, Adria Ann (Charlie) Biddle of Rhode Island, Mark Byers (Letitia) Willis of Florida, David Bradford (Patricia) Willis of Rhode Island, and Thomas Trask (Nancy) Willis of Vermont. Phil also leaves behind ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, as well as cherished memories that will forever be held dear. He was predeceased by his brother, Jack Willis.

Phil's early career began in his teenage years when he delivered milk to homes throughout Saunderstown, while at North Kingstown Senior High School. After graduating in 1949, he embarked on a success- ful career with Morton Grossman, owner of Crawford Garden Supplies in

Providence, Rhode Island. A proud member of the Rhode Island Air National Guard from 1949 to 1958, Phil demonstrated his commitment to community service as an early member and past president of the North Kingstown Volunteer Ambulance Association. He was also a member of the Narragansett Bay Yachting Association and a lifelong attendee of the First Baptist Church in Wickford.

Throughout Phil's remarkable journey, he shared numerous passions with his beloved wife. He whole-heartedly supported Norma's extensive career in Rhode Island politics and, together, they opened their home to hundreds of people over the years.

Phil and Norma also found joy in entertaining friends, often treating them to memorable sunset cruises around Narragansett Bay on their sailboats. Phil's warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering love for family and community will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In honoring Philip Jastram Willis, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy of love, dedication, and community service that will endure in the hearts of those he touched.

Calling hours respectfully omitted. A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 9, 2024, at 11am in the First Baptist Church in Wickford, RI. All are welcome.

The family of Philip Jastram Willis kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the First Baptist Church in Wickford. Contributions can be sent to 44 Main Street, North Kingstown, RI 02852.

Arrangements have been entrusted to THE CRANSTON-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME of WICKFORD.