Gina K Willis

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the only child of Virginia Olive Bass and Edward Komurka. She grew up near Chicago and then Southern California, where she learned to love the beach and sun. Gina began her career in entertainment as a ballet dancer in the L.A./San Francisco Civic Light Opera. After earning her B.A. in Theater and English from Stanford University, she moved to South Florida, where she was a dancer and singer on cruise ships, in Latin America, and as part of live shows in South Florida. An accomplished model, Gina led charm school classes in the Miami area and eventually ran her own business, Charmette Modeling Agency in Miami Springs, for many years. She loved to travel, visiting the Caribbean and Europe multiple times, and visiting with friends and family.

She lived in the Miami area, in Key Largo, and finally settled in Englewood, Florida with her husband, Dr. Robert J. Willis, who preceded her in death in 2015. Gina attended Englewood United Methodist Church and was a faithful online attendee in recent years. She enjoyed reading, watching The Bachelor and Bachelorette, and eating out (and a glass of wine) with her friends from Park Forest and beyond. Despite several recent health challenges, Gina was determined to live life the way she wanted and at home. Gina’s family would like to thank Roxanne Ramsey, her caregiver, for the support and love she provided during the past year that made it possible for Gina to do so.

She is survived by a half-sister, Karla Foster, and a half-brother, Kim, both of California and her cousins. She is also survived by a stepson, Derek Willis (Leslye) of Maryland, her grandson, Luke Willis of Maryland, and a stepdaughter, Julie Willis of Pennsylvania. Gina leaves behind her many friends and neighbors in Englewood, and her beloved cat, Senna. In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the Suncoast Humane Society with your time and gifts.