G.D. Willis (2-11-17) service 2-17-17

G.D. Willis, of Counce, departed this life on Saturday, Feb. 11, at the age of 86 years, 7 months, and 15 days. 
He was born in Stantonville on June 27, 1930, the son of the late Hugh (Bill) and Sally Vinson Willis. On April 16, 1956, he was united in marriage to Maureen Emily Harris, who preceded him in death on Nov. 6, 2010.
Mr. Willis enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. He retired from the Air Force as a technical sergeant after 21 years, 6 months and 21 days of service. He then went to work and later retired as a public safety officer for TVA at several locations such as Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant, Pickwick Dam,  Tennessee, Yellow Creek, Mississippi, and Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
He enjoyed hunting for arrowheads and other artifacts along the banks of the river. He also enjoyed gardening, and gaining “bragging rights” over the first ripe tomato of the season was a goal of his. He loved spending time with family and friends, especially his granddaughter and great-grandchildren, who were his favorite.
Mr. Willis is survived by his daughters, Susan Willis Smith and her husband Ricky, and Linda Willis, all of Counce; grandchild, Jennifer Smith Burks and her husband Brandon; great-grandchildren, Bentley Ray Burks and Mary Susan Burks; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by brothers, Robert Earl Willis and Billy Hugh Willis; and sisters, Mary Louise Mulder and Wilma Christine Willis.
Services will be held on Friday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m., at White Sulphur Cemetery  in Pickwick Dam with Rick Jones officiating. Burial will follow in White Sulphur Cemetery at Pickwick Dam.