BENTON -- John Carroll Willis, 67, was called home to heaven by his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at 9:10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2017.
John was born Dec. 15, 1949, in Bentonville, Arkansas, the eldest son of seven children, to Earl Carroll and Ila Darlene (Wright) Willis.
At a young age, John moved with his family to Benton and was nearly a lifelong resident.
He married the love of his life, Jacqulyn "Jackie" (Harben) Willis, on Oct. 30, 1970.
John provided for his family by working as a supervisor in the coal mines, primarily in Franklin County through Old Ben and Zeigler Coal Companies. He retired from the mines and transitioned to car sales, running Willis Motor Company in Benton for many years until his full retirement.
He and Jackie had two children and seven grandchildren: a son, J. Ryan Willis M.D. (Tara) and their children, Lauryn, 17, Luke, 14, and Gabe, 10; and daughter, Michelle "Mitzie" Bowlby (Matt) and their children, Jordan, 23, Logan, 21, Will, 14, and Brock, 11.
His children and grandchildren were the light of his life. He loved them dearly and cherished their times together, especially cheering for them in all of their sporting events. "Papa" will be sorely missed.
John loved his Lord Jesus and was a faithful servant until his very last day on earth. He was a charter member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Benton, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. He was a longtime deacon and recent chairman of the deacon body.
He was the church treasurer and a Sunday school teacher for over 30 years. He also served on nearly every committee at Immanuel at various times over the years. John loved Immanuel dearly, and he considered it a blessing to be of service there.
John was an avid golfer and member of Benton Country Club during his retirement years. His other hobbies were many, but included bowling, landscaping and gardening. He was passionate about his many and varied interests, and he gave his all to each one.
Survivors include his wife, children and grandchildren, along with his younger siblings, Jerrold C. Willis M.D. (Deborah), James C. Willis (Joy), Joel C. Willis (Cindy), Jill C. Willis Butler (Richard) and Jeffrey C. Willis (Elizabeth); brother-in-law, Robin Avery; sister-in-law, Becky Harben; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Juni C. Willis Avery; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Donald Jack and Lodean (Rhine) Harben; and brother-in-law, Mark A. Harben.
Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22, in Immanuel Baptist Church, 516 N. Main St., in Benton with the Rev. Sammy Simmons officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 21, and 2 to 3 p.m. Sunday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church Benevolence Fund and Children's Ministry.
Pate Funeral Home, 301 S. Main St., in Benton is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be provided at www.patefh.com.
