John Willis

John Michael Willis, 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida with his daughters by his side.

‍Jack, as he was known by friends and family, was born in Carbondale, Pennsylvania on December 14, 1947. He was the youngest child, and only son, of John W. Willis and Catherine Hope. After graduating high school, he joined the US Navy. After several years serving in Italy, he was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida, where he retired after 20 years of dedicated service.

‍He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing and golf. Jack was a prankster who loved making people laugh. He never missed a Notre Dame football game, usually watching with a beloved dog by his side. He was a steadfast patriot and extremely honored to have served his country.

‍Jack was preceded in death by his parents, his adored sisters Mary Perri, Helen Walsh, and Catherine Murray. He was also preceded by his first wife and mother of children, Evelyn Saha Willis, his son Sean Michael, and his beloved wife of 26 years, Jennie Lathrope Willis.

He is survived by his daughters, Nicole Feagle and her husband Kevin, Jennifer Willis and her husband Matt, ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his cherished sister Margaret Ashby, his God-daughter Mary Lynn Ashby, and many other nieces and nephews.

In lieu of cards or flowers, we ask that donations be made to Wounded Warrior Project in his honor.

Arrangements are entrusted to Weems & Sons Funeral Homes, 715 West Park Avenue Chiefland, Florida 32626.