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A retired veteran of the United States Navy, we thank him for his honorable service. Gregory Willis, Sr. transitioned to be with the Lord on May 31, 2026, after a lengthy illness. Gregory, as he was affectionately known, was born in Alton, Illinois, on July 17, 1947, to the late Clarence Elmer Willis and Mary Louise Green. He will be remembered for his leadership, accomplishments, and many contributions to his community throughout his selfless life. Gregory graduated from Alton Senior High School in Alton, Illinois, in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country from 1965 until his honorable discharge in 1969. During his military service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960). Following his military service, Gregory pursued a career in healthcare, dedicating more than 50 years to serving Houston, Texas, community and surrounding areas as a Registered Nurse and healthcare administrator. Gregory was also a dedicated educator. For more than 40 years, he taught Medication Aide and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) courses to students pursuing careers in healthcare at Exception Healthcare Academy in Houston, Texas, and A Continuum CNA Training Center in Missouri City, Texas. He also taught CPR through the American Red Cross at WeCare for more than 40 years throughout the Houston area. Serving and teaching were Gregory’s passions. He educated countless students in life-saving practices and skills and dedicated his life to healthcare as a Registered Nurse (BSN) and administrator, constantly striving to serve others while providing outstanding care. Gregory was loved by all, including his many special friends in Alton, Illinois, and Houston, Texas. He was a strong man of integrity, compassion, generosity, and unwavering faith. Greg was always willing to help those less fortunate than himself and had a tremendous heart for serving others. He was a devoted provider who cared deeply for both family and friends. His heart was always open, and he was always available to lend a helping hand. As a public servant, Gregory was genuine, passionate, and committed. Throughout his life, he demonstrated unconditional love for those around him and inspired countless individuals through his service, mentorship, and dedication to his community. As Gregory’s earthly journey drew to a close, he expressed his love for God and found comfort in listening to gospel music as he prepared for his heavenly home. He often said, “I will walk around Heaven looking for my family with a smile.” Gregory was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Willis and Mary Louise Green; his brother, Sonny Willis; and his oldest sister, JoAnn McMurray, affectionately known as “Aunt Jo.” Gregory leaves to cherish his precious memories three sons, two daughters: Gregory Willis, Jr. (wife, Tiesha Willis) of Missouri City, Texas; Adrian Willis, Sr. of Houston, Texas; Tia Ingram Henry (husband, Charlie Henry) of Dallas, Texas; Brandon Willis of Texas City, Texas; Tateyanna Willis of Houston, Texas; and stepdaughter Meagan Johnson of Houston, Texas. Grandchildren: Ty Ronique, Raiven Raquel, and Tiara Royal of Missouri City, Texas; Brittany Guess, Brianna Spencer, Adrian Willis II, Deondre Johnson, Reagan Johnson, and Santana Willis, all of Houston, Texas; Tania Chiles (husband, Anthony Chiles) of Dallas, Texas; and A’Lisia and Jayden Johnson of Dallas, Texas. Great-grandchildren: Nova Chiles, Aubree Chiles, Aiden Johnson, and Amaris Johnson, all of Dallas, Texas; Jordan Armstead, King Rodgers, Messiah Rogers, Wyatt Calnan, Kyngston, Phoebe, and Levi Winfield. Siblings: Sister Anita Woodard (husband, Pastor Carl Woodard) of Alton, Illinois; brother Paul Willis (wife, Sharon Willis) of Alton, Illinois; and brother Brian Willis of Alton, Illinois, sister and loyal best friend, Anna Eaglin, and Pastor Sylvester Robertson, who faithfully cared for him and stood by his side until he went home to be with the Lord. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues will miss him dearly. He will never be forgotten in our hearts.

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Gregory Willis

July 17, 1947 - May 31, 2026