Gary Hugh Willis

Gary Hugh Willis,82, of Tipton, Missouri, passed away Sunday, July 22, 2018 at his home. He was born April 20, 1936 in Hoboken, New Jersey, the son of Jack and Lois Willis. Gary has one brother, Craig Willis, and one sister. His sister Judy Lewis preceded him in death along with his father Jack {John}. Gary was at an early age raised by his step-dad Leland Elmes and his mother. They also preceded him in death. He left school in the 9th grade to go to work and help support his parents and siblings. Gary was able to hold four jobs.

Gary enlisted in the National Guard on March 16, 1954 and earned the medal of expert marksman. He was able to hit his target from 100 yards away and every bullet was always a bullseye. On March 15, 1957 he was honorably discharged from the National Guard with the rank of P.F.C. E-3.

Gary married Margert Hazel Lane on May 10, 1958. They were married in North Bergen, New Jersey. They were blessed with two children, Gary Robert and Cheryl Ann. Their son passed away on August 20, 2006 and Margaret passed away on February 2, 2012.

He worked for Maxwell House Coffee as a product handler till the plant moved to Florida. At that point he took early retirement.

Gary loved going to the Casino and playing Pogo. He loved animals, especially his two cats, Cuddles and Cinnie. He enjoyed listening to music from the 1940’s and 1950’s and going and spending a day at car shows. He loved driving and showing his many show worthy cars. Gary would spend late nights talking to all his friends in many different countries on his Ham Radio. His daughter Cheryl had helped him archive his Ham operator license. Gary was known as KA2FBO.

Cheryl Ann Wood is married to Michael Alan Wood. They reside in Tipton, Missouri. They have two Children, Britney Lynn and Bradley Alan Wood.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m on Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia, with Pastor Frank Eastman officiating. Full military honors will be conducted by VFW Post #2591 and the Missouri Army National Guard.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.