Anthony Willis

Red was born on January 31, 1943, to Seymour and Barbara Willis.

He dedicated his professional life to the city of Houston as a firefighter, rising to the rank of District Chief. Red was defined by his commitment to his work and his family. He was recognized throughout his life as a model of responsibility who worked hard and took great care of those he loved.

He was devoted to his wife, Betty Jo Willis, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. Betty Jo passed away just three weeks prior; they are now reunited in death as they were in life.

Red is survived by his daughter, Angela Willis and her husband, Tomás Jiménez-Eliæson; and his son, Stephen Willis and his wife, Lisa Kelly-Willis. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Adriana Jiménez-Willis, Evelyn Jiménez-Willis, Maxwell Willis, and Clementine Willis.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo Willis; his parents, Seymour and Barbara Willis; his brother, Peter Willis; and his sister, Cynthia Willis.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Brookside Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 13747 Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77039. A Graveside Service will follow at 12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the National Kidney Foundation.