James E. Willis

Bartow - James E. Willis, age 86, passed away June 25, 2026, at his residence in Bartow. He was born on August 6, 1939, in Omega, GA to Ishmael & Lorraine (Tucker) Willis. He worked as an Inspector for Crown Cork & Seal . He enjoyed coaching in his younger years, fishing, hunting and traveling. He was preceded in death by his sister Bonnie Weldon and daughter in law Connie Willis. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Carolyn Willis, sons Brian Willis (Cindy) & Keith Willis, daughter Stacey Willis (Lisa), grandchildren Kelly, Derek, Melissa, Steven & Amanda , 8 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, sister Martha Wooten, brother John Willis and many nieces & nephews. Family will receive friends Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, Bartow. Graveside Service will be held Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 12:30 PM at Homeland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to the Homeland Cemetery Association  Incorporated, P.O. Box 79, Homeland, FL 33847. Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com