Willa Dean Mullins Ison

Willa Dean Mullins Ison, age 92, was born on August 1, 1933, in Knott County, Kentucky, to Troy Mullins and Nebraska Gibson Mullins. She passed away peacefully with her son by her side, holding her hand.

Willa was one of fourteen children born into the Mullins family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Troy and Nebraska Gibson Mullins; her husbands, Billy Joe Ison and William H. Willis; and her siblings Lemon Mullins, Lenville Mullins, Opal Mullins, Elmer Mullins, Homer Mullins, Glenda Fay Hall, Charles Mullins, Wanda J. Brosamer, and Glen Daryl Mullins.

She is survived by her beloved son, Samuel R. Ison; her brothers, Larry Mullins (Linda) and Michael Mullins (Bobbie); her sisters, Versa Mae Williams and Maxine Cox; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members on both the Mullins and Ison sides of the family, and many dear friends.

Willa was first married to Billy Joe Ison, with whom she shared her beloved son, Samuel. Following Billy Joe’s passing in 1977, she later married William H. Willis in 1981. William preceded her in death in 2005.

In 1952, Willa moved to Dayton, Ohio, where she built a life defined by determination, perseverance, and an unmatched work ethic. She worked as a press operator at the General Motors Inland Manufacturing Plant for 34 years before retiring. Willa was independent, strong-willed, and deeply committed to providing for her family. She believed in hard work, facing life’s challenges with determination, and always giving her very best.

Of all the accomplishments in her life, Willa was most proud of raising her son and encouraging him to pursue a college education and eventually become an educator. She believed education created opportunity and worked tirelessly to support and encourage him throughout his life.

After retirement, Willa enjoyed attending church, planning lunches with her church friends, and spending time tending to her flowers. She loved cooking meals, especially preparing food for her son to take home during the week. Willa truly loved people and never met a stranger. She enjoyed sharing stories from her life, making others laugh, and reminiscing with family and friends. Her warm personality, kindness, and genuine spirit made people feel comfortable and welcome wherever she went.

At the same time, everyone knew where Willa, whom some called “Dee,” stood and just how far they could go with her. She had a feisty spirit, balanced with a wonderful sense of humor that made people love her even more.

She also loved shopping, especially buying clothes for herself and for the family members she loved so dearly.

Willa will be remembered for her kindness, caring heart, friendliness, independence, perseverance, humor, and genuine love for others. Her strength and determination carried her through life, and her laughter, stories, and unwavering devotion to family will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, family members, and friends who offered love, support, and compassion throughout Willa’s life and during her final days.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Morningstar Baptist Church, 208 Nutt Road, Centerville, OH 45458. The family will receive visitors at the church from 11:30 a.m. until the time of the service on Thursday.

Graveside services and interment will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Elliot County Memory Gardens, 603 North Kentucky 7, Sandy Hook, KY, 41171

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Day City Hospice (7601 Paragon Rd., Suite 201, Dayton, Ohio 45459) in honor of Willa’s life and memory.