Gerry Lou Willis

She was born in Alva, Oklahoma, to Hovert Sylvester Adams and Dorothy Leonhardt Adams. Gerry spent her early years in South Texas and Southern Louisiana, later graduating from Lake Charles High School. She went on to dedicate more than 30 years of her life to special education in the North East Independent School District.

In 1955, Gerry married Harold Dean Willis, Sr., with whom she shared a full and loving life. Together, they raised three children. She was a supportive Army wife and jokingly said, “If the military wanted you to have a wife, they would have issued you one."

Gerry was known for her vibrant spirit and sense of humor. She brought joy to many during her time as a clown in “Clown Alley” at NIOSA and later as a “Flower Fluffer” with The Conservation Society of San Antonio. Her creativity knew no bounds. She found joy in sewing, crafting of all kinds, and attending not only quilting but also magic conventions.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, Harold Dean Willis, Jr., David Lynn Willis, and Karen Diane Willis; grandchildren, Jason Willis, Cassandra Willis, and Jordan Willis; and five great-grandchildren.

Gerry was preceded in death by her husband and parents.

A graveside service and interment will take place on Monday, June 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery Shelter 1.

Honoring Gerry’s Legacy, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gerry’s memory to one of the following causes close to her heart:

Boysville San Antonio: (https://boysvilletexas.org/)

Animal Defense League of Texas: (https://adltexas.org/)

The Conservation Society of San Antonio: (https://www.saconservation.org/)

Or donate a gently used suitcase to a local foster care program, so children have something meaningful to carry their belongings in; rather than a trash bag.

“Forever in our hearts.”