Herman Edwin (Sonnie) Willis

Herman Edwin (Sonnie) Willis, 75, went to be with his Lord on Thursday Jan. 24, 2019. Born in Kennett, Mo., Feb. 1, 1943, he grew up in Treasure Island, Mo. A 1961 graduate of Hornersville High School, Mr. Willis soon went to work for Randall Textron in Blytheville, Ark. He served two years in the United States Army before returning to work at Randall Textron. Later he was employed at Peachtree Tool and Die in Braselton, Ga., until his retirement in 2001. Mr. Willis was an active member of the Chestnut Mountain Church of Christ. One of the greatest enjoyments of his life was spending time with his family.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 31 years Willene Willis. Their love for each other grew more every day. Through notes and words, he showed her daily how much he loved her. His little love notes started a tradition for visiting family and friends to do the same.

Also surviving him are his brothers, Charlie (Cecelia) Willis of Columbia, Tenn., and Ron (Teresa) Willis of Bells, Tenn.; daughters, Sheila (Craig) Barthel of Billings, Mont., and Amy Willis of Washington State; grandsons, Jackson and Austin Barthel of Billings, Mont., Evan Barthel of Helena, Mont., and Jonathan Seitz and Stefan Bush of Washington State; granddaughter Melissa Seitz of Washington; as well as a host of numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. The love he shared and inspired was something to behold and touched the soul of each person he knew.

Mr. Willis was preceded in death by his parents, William Herman and Victoria (Essary) Willis, a brother, Willie Clifton Willis, and a daughter, Sherry Schroeder.

Funeral services for Mr. Willis will be held Monday, Jan. 28, at 11 a.m. from the Chapel of Carter Funeral Home with Brother Ron Cope and Brother Seth Michael officiating. Burial will be in Barrow Memorial Gardens. The family will receive visitors Sunday, Jan. 27, from 2-4 p.m. at the funeral home.

A special thank you to Carolyn and Tom Harper for their love, support and kindness during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Georgia Agape.

Carter Funeral Home of Winder, Ga., is in charge of arrangements where online condolences may be expressed at www.carterfhwinder.com.