Honoring Memories With Compassionate Obituary Services

James E Willis

6/18/1948 - 7/19/2026

Obituary For James E Willis

Mr. James Willis, 78, of Magnolia, Arkansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at BHMC Magnolia on July 19, 2026. He was a lifetime resident of Southwest Arkansas who was a big time lover and protector of his children and his siblings as well. He was a proud and faithful member of the Southview Church of Christ. He was also noted to be an outstanding domino player. He loved talking noise, listening to blues, and watching Western’s on T.V.

Mr. Willis was born to the late Mr. Ira Willis and the late Mrs. Vernice Wesley-Willis in Waldo, Arkansas on June 18, 1948. He attended Waldo Westside School. He was self-employed as a carpet layer, logger, and lawn care.

Mr. Willis was preceded in death by both parents, and seven siblings, Ira Willis Jr., Francile Jackson, Leroy Willis, Elmore Willis, Mary Lean Strickling, Carolyn Willis, and Charles Willis. One brother in-law, James Troy Strickling. He leaves to cherish his many memories, his two children, Ms. Jalisa Willis of Magnolia, Arkansas, and Mr. Kevin Willis of Hope, Arkansas. Two sisters, Mrs. Lois Ross (John) of Magnolia, Arkansas and Mrs. Shirley Young of Muskegon, Michigan. A host of grandchildren. Four great-grandchildren. Two sisters in-laws, Erva Willis and Charlene Willis. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

His service will be held at Southview Church of Christ, 234 Fairview St. Magnolia, Arkansas 71753 on Tuesday July 28, 2026, at 1:00 P. M. where Pastor Michael Turner will serve as Officiant and Eulogist. Public visitation will be on Monday, July 27, 2026, from 11:00 A.M. until 3:30 P.M. at Hamilton-Davis Funeral Home. Interment will be immediately following the service at Smith Cemetery, County Rd 27 North, Waldo, Arkansas 71770.

Masks are optional but highly recommended. Please be mindful of those you may encounter.

Services

27 Jul

Visitation

11:00 AM - 03:30 PM

Hamilton-Davis Funeral Home Chapel 415 East First St Stamps, AR 71860 Get Directions »

28 Jul

Homegoing Celebration

01:00 PM - 02:30 PM

Southview Church of Christ 234 Fairview Street Magnolia, AR 71753 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

07/28/2026

Linette Curry
07/28/2026

Ora Radford Turner
07/27/2026

Davis's

Mr. James, Jack Street will not be the same . R.I.P.
07/22/2026

Andrea Cooper

I'm going to really miss you uncle James! You were my favorite uncle on my maternal side of family! I respected you for who you were. Love Andrea💙
07/21/2026

James&Sandra Daniels

James was my neighbor for a long time. he was a very good kind person, I will truly miss him,