Lewis Willis

Lewis Charles Willis, known to most as "Lew" and to many as “Lewie,” passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 79 in Pensacola, Florida, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Born on October 12, 1946, in Pensacola to Frederick Lowe Willis and Wilhelmina Willis, Lew lived a life defined by service, laughter, adventure, loyalty, and unwavering love for his family and friends.

Lew's early years in Pensacola laid the foundation for a life of purpose and discipline. He attended Seminary School before graduating from Catholic High School, then went on to earn a finance degree from St. Bernard College. Answering the call to serve his country, Lew enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he distinguished himself as a pilot and completed two tours of duty in Vietnam. His extraordinary skill and bravery in combat earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross, one of the military's highest honors for aerial achievement. He retired from the Air Force with the rank of Captain.

Following his military career, Lew applied his sharp mind and strong work ethic to the world of finance. He worked for Martin Marietta, later owned and operated a software company, and ultimately spent the remainder of his professional career at Lockheed Martin, retiring as Finance Director. His career reflected the same determination and excellence he brought to everything he pursued.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Lew was, above all, a man who cherished people and laughter. He was the life of the party, quick witted and always ready with a joke to lighten your spirits. He was charming and fiercely loyal to his loved ones. He was a man who loved adventure in many forms, whether riding a Harley, scuba diving, boating, or traveling the country in his RV. A devoted Florida Gators fan, he brought the same passion to cheering on his team as he did to everything else in life. He also gave generously of his time, volunteering at the Washburn Center in Pensacola.

Lew is survived by his beloved wife, Priscilla Willis; his two daughters, Shannon Coldiron and Amanda LaConte; Priscilla’s children, Jennifer Beeman and Jason Beeman; his sisters, Betty Evans and Freddie Thompson; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Carolyn Willis; his parents, Frederick Lowe Willis and Wilhelmina Willis; and his sister, Sarah Jane Brock.

His daughters want to pass along that, among the many facets of his remarkable legacy, these are the lessons that will stay with them most. He taught them that strength and tenderness can coexist – that it is not only okay to cry, but that expressing emotion is a sign of empathy and humanity, something he embodied every day. He reminded them that no job or obligation is worth sacrificing their health, emphasizing the importance of caring for themselves as much as they care for others. Through his own example, he instilled in them a deep work ethic, an unwavering commitment to putting family first, and an appreciation for humor—even in life’s hardest moments. They aspire to carry on his legacy in the way they love, work, and show up for life each day.

Visitation and Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 10:00am and 11:00am, respectively; at Catholic Church of Holy Spirit in Pensacola, FL. The funeral will follow on the same day at 1:00pm at Barrancas National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Wounded Warriors Foundation, the Alfred Washburn Center, or Vitas Inpatient Hospice Care at Sacred Heart Hospital in Lew’s memory.

https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

https://www.alfredwashburn.org/donate/

https://vitascommunityconnection.org

“So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.” (John 16:22)

"Some of it's magic, some of it's tragic. But I had a good life all the way."

-Jimmy Buffett