William “Buddy” Stancer Willis transitioned from this earthy life on Monday, April 13, 2020.

William was born on September 9, 1948 to the late Isaac Willis and Bessie Willis. He was the oldest of nine children. William attended school within the Beaufort County School System. Upon graduating high school, William joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served in the Vietnam War as a Military Police Officer. Shortly after his return from deployment, he relocated to New York. There, he met and married Betty Ann Gamble. To this union, two children, Natasha and Demetrius, were born. Williams was later employed with the Electrical Join Board Local 3 Union and retired in 2002 after completing a rescue mission during the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

William had a very strong love for his family and had a very lively and humble spirit. He loved to bring laughter, happiness, and joy to any and everyone he encountered.

William will be sorely missed amongst his family and friends. To cherish his loving memory, he leaves behind his two children, “Tasha” Wilson of Raleigh, NC and Demetrius Willis of Dallas, TX; four brothers, Elder Charles Willis (Josephine) of Wyandarich, NY; Elder Kennis Willis, Sr. (Virginia) of Round Rock, TX, Bishop Serinus Willis, Sr. (Fannie) of Blounts Creek, NC; and Jacob Willis of Greenville, NC; two sisters, Thelma W. Jones of Blounts Creek, NC and Janice W. Lawrence (Nick) of Chocowinity, NC; six grandchildren, Diamond, Dinasti, Diana, Darius, and Daric Motes, all of Raleigh, NC and Demetrius Jr. “Meechie” of Dallas, TX; one great-grandchild, Destin; two uncles, Deacon Leroy Fields and William Smith, and one aunt, Emily Moore, all of Blounts Creek, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved and will miss him dearly.

William was preceded in death by his mother and father, Isaac and Bessie, along with two sisters, Ernestine Willis, Caroline W. Barrow, and his beloved wife of 41 years, Betty.