Joseph "Poppy" Wills

Joseph “Poppy” Wills, 92 years young, of Midland, joined his Savior on Saturday December 1, 2012. He was born on February 21, 1920 in Drumright, Oklahoma to Nathan Lewis Wills and Susan “Elimina” Burris Wills. He graduated from Drumright High School in 1938. Joe married his highschool sweetheart, Iva Ramey on December 10, 1938 in Cleaveland, Oklahoma. He was inducted into the Navy on October 12, 1944, he served in the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign, stationed in Guam. He was awarded the World War II Victory Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged on March 19, 1946. Following his service with the Navy, he and his family moved to West Texas where he worked in the oil industry. He lived in Kermit, Texas and Tokio, Texas prior to moving to Midland where he worked for Ingersoll-Rand as a Service Supervisor for 25 years. He retired in 1985. Also, in 1985 Joe founded Wills Counsulting, Inc. He was Owner/CEO until he dissolved the corporation in 1998. Known as Poppy to everyone; his greatest thrill was vacationing with his family. Above all was his love of his savior, Jesus Christ. His faith was strong, his heart was large and his smile was never ending. His motto in life was smile and nod, his favorite response to “how are you doing?” was, “GREAT!” Joe and his wife, Iva were members of First Assembly of God church and also attended Lifehouse Fellowship Church.

Joe was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Gregory.

He is survived by his wife Iva, one son Larry Wills of Midland, one daughter Debbie Duncan and husband Shayne of Midland. He is also survived by five grandchildren: Joe Don Gregory, Tracy Gregory Dau, Michael Beggs, Courtney Duncan and Rachyl Duncan; six great grandchildren: Tiffany Dau Christie, Niki Dau, Jody Gregory, Andy Gregory. Kimber and Barrett Beggs; one great-great grandchild: Kolton Christie and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 4, 2012 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Ellis Funeral Home.

Services will be held Wednesday December 5, 2012 at 2:00pm at Life House Fellowship with Pastor Jeremy Sutton officiating.

Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.ellisfunerals.com.