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1939 Monroe Willis 2025

Monroe Willis

March 6, 1939 — January 30, 2025

Middleton, Tennesssee

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Monroe Willis, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, who left this world on January 30, 2025, in Germantown, Tennessee, at the age of 85. Born on March 6, 1939, in Silerton, Tennessee, he dedicated his life to building not just houses, but homes filled with love and memories.

Monroe's career as a contractor spanned over 60 years during which he owned and operated Willis & Willis Construction. His passion for building was evident in every project he undertook, and the homes he created stand as a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication. The journey of his life took a significant turn when he moved from Illinois to Tennessee in the early part of 1974, where he continued to make a lasting impact in his community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Monroe proudly served in the U.S. Army, demonstrating a commitment to his country that he carried with him throughout his life. He was a member of the Dixie Hills Baptist Church for over 50 years, and he was an active participant in the Gideons and the Hardeman County Crisis Team. His steadfast faith and willingness to lend a helping hand to those in need were among his proudest accomplishments.

Monroe’s joy in life was found not only in his work but also in his cherished hobbies. He found peace and happiness while fishing and greatly enjoyed spending time with his family, who were the center of his universe. His love for his family was immeasurable, and he was admired for his warm spirit and unwavering support as a loving husband to his wife, Janice Willis of Middleton, and a devoted father to his children, Kim Brasher and Bryan of Trussville, AL and Roger Willis and Tanya of Middleton.

He leaves behind the comforting memories of his family, including his eight grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy. Monroe is survived by his brothers, Jerry Ballard and Barbara of Lexington, TN and Russell Ballard and Lynn of Bethel Springs; and his sisters, Myrtie Schlueter and Ken of Bardwell, KY, Paulette Henson of Bolivar, and Martha Howell and David of Middleton. He also leaves behind his stepson, Patrick Casey and Tiffany of Memphis, who will remember him fondly.

Monroe’s legacy is also intertwined with the memories of those who have passed before him, including his first wife, Sheila Dian Willis, and his son, Michael Andrew Willis. He was the cherished son of Andrew Monroe Willis and Nema Ethel Tull Willis Ballard; step-father, Paul Ballard; and had two siblings who have also departed this world, Thelma Hazelgrove and Albert Deloyd Willis, as well as a stepson, Shannan Casey.

Monroe will be honored with visitation services held at Dixie Hills Baptist Church in Bolivar, TN, on February 1 from 5 PM to 8 PM, and again on February 2 from 1 PM to 2 PM, leading into his funeral service at 2 PM. Following the service, friends and family are invited to join in a final farewell as he is laid to rest at Bolivar Memorial Cemetery.

Though Monroe Willis has left this earthly realm, his spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His storied life of hard work, faith, and devoted family will always serve as an inspiration, reminding us of the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. Let us celebrate his life, honor his memory, and find comfort in one another as we say goodbye to a remarkable man.  Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to The Gideon's, PO Box 182, Bolivar, TN  38008.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Monroe Willis, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Saturday, February 1, 2025

5:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)

Dixie Hills Baptist Church

75 Dixie Hill Road, Bolivar, TN 38008

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Visitation

Sunday, February 2, 2025

1:00 - 2:00 pm (Central time)

Dixie Hills Baptist Church

75 Dixie Hill Road, Bolivar, TN 38008

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Funeral Service

Sunday, February 2, 2025

2:00 - 2:45 pm (Central time)

Dixie Hills Baptist Church

75 Dixie Hill Road, Bolivar, TN 38008

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Interment

Sunday, February 2, 2025

3:30 - 3:45 pm (Central time)

Bolivar Memorial Cemetery

401 Orange St., Bolivar, TN 38008

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

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