Jay D. Willis' Obituary
Mr. Jay D. Willis, age 79, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2019 with his family by his side. He was born on February 17, 1940 to Donald and Verabelle (Lancaster) Willis in Grand Rapids, MI. Jay worked at Jack’s Corner Store as the manager of the meat department, retiring in 2005. He married the former Kimberley VanVeelen on February 25, 2005 and she survives him. Jay enjoyed golfing, playing softball, bowling (once bowling a perfect 300!), and especially hunting in Colorado. He loved to cook, plan parties and cookouts, and spend holiday time with family. Jay was a former member of the Episcopalian church in Newago as well as a former member of the Fruitport Eagles. Jay was known for his love of animals, mostly dogs and bunnies, and being a fan of the band “Alabama.” Jay will be missed by his Wife, Kim; Daughter, Katie (Nathan) Fairchild; Grandson, Marshall Fairchild; Sister, Vicki (Russ) Moulton; Niece and Goddaughter, Tracy Willett and her children, Tyler (fiancé, Anna Vandenberg) Willett, Taryn (fiancé, Greg Fribley) Willett and Trevor Willett; Nephew and Godson, Troy Moulton and his children, Courtney (Tim) Covey and Brandon Moulton; Nephew and Godson, Trent Moulton and his children, Connor Moulton and Addyson Moulton; Niece, Tara (Jeff) Bee and their children, Joshua Bee and Julia Bee; and Nephew, Tory (Rebecca) Lynnes and their daughter, Taylin Lynnes. He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother, Don Michael Willis and sister, Sheri (Lee) Lynnes. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 26 at 11AM at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service, from 10-11AM. Memorial contributions may be directed to Harbor Hospice Foundation or Pound Buddies. Please visit the family’s online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
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