Ernest Doyle Willis

August 31, 1939 – October 6, 2026

Ernest Doyle Willis, a devoted husband, loving father and father-in-law, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a man of deep and abiding faith, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2026 at the age of 87.

Doyle, as he was affectionately known, was born on August 31, 1939, in Ruston, Louisiana, to Ernest Floyd Willis and Minnie Belle Clark.

Doyle leaves behind a legacy of faith, integrity, service, and love. His life was a quiet testimony that a man’s legacy is measured not simply by what he achieves, but by how he loves, how he serves, and what he leaves in the hearts of others. Above all, he was a godly man who put his relationship with God first. Throughout his life, he faithfully served his church in many capacities, including as a deacon, treasurer, and song leader. His faith was reflected not only in what he believed, but in how he lived, worked, and cared for those around him.

One of the greatest blessings of Doyle's life was his beloved wife, Sharon, with whom he shared 67 years of marriage. Together, they built a life centered on faith, love, and commitment, remaining by one another's side through every season of life. Their marriage was a testament to loyalty, devotion, and perseverance.

Doyle took seriously his responsibility to love, protect, and provide for his family. He believed one of the greatest gifts a father could give his children was the example of a life lived with strong character and personal integrity. More than anything, he wanted to be a good husband, a good father, and a good example. He was a steady and dependable presence who could always be counted on for guidance, encouragement, and support.

His family was his greatest source of pride and joy. He took every opportunity to teach and encourage his sons, Greg and Nolan, often sharing scripture, articles, lessons from life, and observations he believed would help them build character and become better men. The lessons he taught and the example he set continue to influence his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren today.

Professionally, Doyle built a respected career as a Senior Piping Designer and Squad Leader in the oil, gas, and chemical industries. He worked for Litwin Engineers and Constructors, United Dominion, and Raytheon, earning the respect of colleagues for his knowledge, precision, dependability, and strong work ethic. Among his professional accomplishments, he was especially proud to have authored Litwin's piping design manual, which was used company-wide.

Doyle approached his work with the same commitment and sense of responsibility that he brought to every aspect of his life. During the severe oil and gas downturn of the 1980s, when massive layoffs affected much of the industry, Doyle was retained to support critical client work and assist engineering sales efforts as the company worked to rebuild its pipeline of opportunities. At one point, he was the only remaining member of his department, a reflection of the trust placed in his knowledge, dependability, and work ethic. Those who knew him often remarked that you simply could not outwork him.

Outside of work, Doyle remained curious about the world around him. He loved learning and enjoyed reading about a wide range of subjects. He was fascinated by top fuel dragsters, physics, and space exploration. He admired people who dedicated themselves to mastering their craft and appreciated excellence wherever he found it.

Doyle was preceded in death by his loving parents; his brothers, Edward Willis and James Willis; and his beloved daughter-in-law, Desiree Willis.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Willis; his two sons, Gregory Willis and his wife, Michele, and Nolan Willis; his five grandchildren, Joshua Willis, Caleb Willis, Lauren Willis, Cole McMahon, and Jake McMahon; and his five great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Willis, Victoria Willis, Kaiden Willis, Liam McMahon, and Zuri McMahon.

While his family deeply mourns his loss, they celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the example he leaves behind. They find comfort in knowing that the faith Doyle carried throughout his earthly life has now carried him home.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Matthew 25:23