Ronald Lee Willis

Ron was born in Vinita, Oklahoma in 1952 to Otis and Maxine Willis. He was a proud Northman, graduating from Oak Park High School in Kansas City, MO, before obtaining his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, MO. From 1970-1976, Ron served our country in the United States Army Reserves. After obtaining his bachelor’s degree, he joined Hallmark Cards at their corporate headquarters in Kansas City, MO, starting out as an accountant and ending a distinguished three-decade career in IT. During this time, he and his brother, Larry, also established Willis Brothers Floor Reinforcement, supporting home builders in the rapidly growing Liberty, MO area in the 1990s, working this second job to help support his family.

Ron met the love of his life, Debbie, in 1970, and the two were married in June 1973.

Ron was a devoted and loving father to Trisha and Tara, and grandfather to Garrett, Dina, Tyler, and Holly, who dearly miss him and the life lessons he imparted to them. He took great pride in being a parent and grandparent, especially participation in and support of their school activities and sporting events, including baseball, football, wrestling, soccer, and dance.

Ron also had a soft spot for furry friends throughout his life, treating each and every one like the valuable family member they were. He leaves in Debbie’s care their two beloved cats, Gabby and Lily.

Everyone who knew Ron know how much he loved playing Bluegrass music on his Martin guitar in his band Willow Creek; cheering on our “boys in blue,” the Kansas City Royals; watching the Chiefs win multiple Super Bowls after a 50-year drought; following winning seasons of OU football and basketball; riding his bike each year in honor of his sister-in-law, Mary Beth, in the MS150; fishing; and playing a good round of golf.

In his retirement, Ron enjoyed volunteering at the Clay County Historical Society & Museum and at the Northland Therapeutic Riding Center where they provide equine assisted therapy to people with special needs.

Ron was a devoted Catholic who sought to live his life by the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. He attended St. James Catholic Church in Liberty, MO, and took solace in knowing the Lord was watching over him and his family.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Otis Willis; his mother, Maxine Willis; and his sister-in-law, Mary Beth Willis.

He is survived by his loyal wife, Debbie Willis; his brother, Larry Willis; his daughters, Trisha and Tara Willis; and his grandchildren, Garrett Brendle, Dina Ranes, Tyler Brendle, and Holly Ranes.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice in Ron’s name are encouraged.