William "Jack" Willis, Jr.

William “Jack” Willis, Jr., age 94, passed away peacefully at his home with his beloved wife. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all who knew him, Jack never met a stranger. He was quick to ask where you were from, begin a conversation, and almost always leave you smiling. He will be deeply missed by the many lives he touched.

Jack was born at home in High Point, North Carolina, on February 12, 1932. to Mary McLeod and William Jack Willis. As a boy, he was curious, energetic, and wonderfully scrappy — often reenacting the antics of The Little Rascals and returning home to his mother with a fresh collection of cuts and scrapes. These adventures later became treasured bedtime stories for his children, full of laughter and usually ending with a gentle lesson about thinking before you leap.

In high school, Jack channeled his boundless energy into track, wrestling, cheerleading, and academics, particularly math and science. He also worked alongside his father in the family produce business, traveling throughout the South buying and selling produce — experiences that helped shape his strong work ethic and gift for conversation.

Jack enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he worked in radar operations. Remarkably, at just 19 years old, he was already teaching young officers, demonstrating the intelligence, patience, and confidence that would define him throughout his life.

After his military service, Jack attended High Point University, later transferring to Milligan College before completing his studies at the University of Tennessee, where he earned a degree in Electrical Engineering.

Jack met the love of his life, Judith Chostner Willis, through a young adult church group in High Point and Greensboro. The two were married on November 16, 1963, beginning a loving partnership that would span more than six decades.

After their marriage, Jack and Judy settled in Winston-Salem, where Jack worked at Bell South Labs and achieved a Masters in Education at NC State University. This is where their daughters Jennifer and Cynthia were born. He later accepted one of his favorite roles, teaching at East Carolina University in Greenville NC. In 1970, the family moved to Raleigh when Jack joined the North Carolina Utilities Commission, where he dedicated more than 20 years of service. During this chapter of life, Jack and Judy welcomed their youngest daughter, Susanne.

Life in Raleigh was centered around family, faith, and community. He attended White Memorial Presbyterian Church and Northbrook Swim Club, Jack was an avid tennis player and enthusiastic volunteer for swim and dive teams, always eager to be part of his daughters’ lives. He was a hands-on father who made sure music and games were part of everyday life. Family years were filled with treasured trips to Jack’s beloved Blue Ridge Mountains, summers at Kiawah Island, and travels throughout Europe with Judy.

Known lovingly as “Papa,” Jack was a devoted and attentive grandfather and great-grandfather. He delighted his family with stories, magic tricks, and impersonations. His grandchildren knew him as a steady source of warmth, and encouragement.

Jack is survived by his wife of 63 years, Judith Chostner Willis; his daughters, Jennifer Willis Scott of Raleigh, Cynthia Willis Beard (Don) of Columbia, South Carolina, and Susanne Chostner Willis (Patrick) of Asheville; his grandchildren, Mabel, Samuel, MaryGrace, and Jack Beard; Thomas and Riley Scott; and Zane and Zelia Pearson; and his great-granddaughters, Jane, Alice, and Lucia. He is also survived his older sister, Betty King of Alabaster, Alabama; and his younger brother, Jerry Willis of High Point, NC.

A celebration of Jack's life will be held at a future date to be determined.

Jack’s favorite expression was t subzero “t₀” a math expression— his simple way of reminding those around him that time begins now. To him, every moment was a chance to begin again.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to White Memorial Presbyterian Church; (https://www.whitememorial.org/give/)

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, is serving the Willis family.