Dr. Paul Irvin Wills, 83, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, and community leader, passed away on October 22, 2026 in Waco, Texas. His life reflected a commitment to caring for others, pursuing knowledge, and improving the community he called home.
Born in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, on January 11, 1943, to Irvin and Ruth Wills. Paul graduated summa cum laude from John Brown University in 1964. He earned his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in 1968 and went on to specialize in otolaryngology—head and neck surgery. During his time at JBU, he met Margaret Harrell. They were married in December of 1964 and spent 61 years together.
For many years, Dr. Wills cared for patients at area hospitals and clinics in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The welfare of his patients remained his guiding priority throughout his career. His accomplishments earned recognition among the Best Doctors in America and Arkansas, along with a Presidential Citation and Honor Award from the American Academy of Otolaryngology.
Paul’s contributions to medicine extended beyond his practice. He published in peer-reviewed medical journals and served on the editorial board of the American Journal of Otolaryngology. He served as president of the Sebastian County Medical Society and chief of staff at Sparks Hospital. Paul held board positions with organizations including John Brown University and the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith.
He also worked to make Fort Smith a healthier place to live, helping plan Mercy Fitness Center and championing smoke-free communities. Active in civic life, he was recognized as Arkansas Republican of the Year in 1995. He retired from medical practice on July 1, 2009, leaving a lasting contribution to the region’s healthcare community.
Outside of practicing medicine, Paul enjoyed golf, creative and academic writing, chess, and studying financial markets. He hosted a weekly gathering at his home known as “Stock Market University,” bringing people together to learn and exchange ideas.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Ruth Perks and Helen Davis. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Harrell Wills; his sons, Alan Wills and wife, Patrice, Shawn Wills and wife, Amy; and his beloved grandchildren, Caroline Decker and husband, Riley, Braden Wills, Abigail Wills, Mia Wills, and Fisher Wills.
His legacy lives on through his family, the patients he cared for, and the community he helped shape.
Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on October 27, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Fort Smith. Funeral service immediately following at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Dale Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery in Siloam Springs, Arkansas.
Pallbearers will be Braden Wills, Fisher Wills, Riley Decker, Isaac Hedinger, Tim Davis, and Tanner Manasco. Honorary pallbearers are Dan Davis, John Davis, Doug Harrell, Joseph Hedinger, Hugh Maurras, and Paul Gibson.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to John Brown University–Dorothy Woodland and Irvin Wills Endowed Science Scholarship. 2000 W. University St. Siloam Springs, AR 72761
