Charles David Willis

born on January 7,1935 in Shelby, Ohio to the late Louis Sherman Willis and Mary

(Walter) Willis.

David was a 1953 graduate of Shelby High School and played drums in the marching

band there. He was a huge fan of The Ohio State University Marching Band {TBDBITL)!

After high school, David served in the US Navy aboard the USS Pawcatuck, a

replenishment tanker, during the Korean War years. Upon return, he and the family

moved from Dayton, Ohio to Phoenix, Arizona in 1970. He worked for Lucky Grocery

stores and the City of Phoenix Police department. He entered the Navy Reserves and

eventually transferred to the Air Force Reserves. He loved the military and supported

many endeavors for our veterans. He was the American Legion, Post 96 photographer

in Surprise, Arizona.

David is survived by his daughter Karen (Gary) Christian. Also 3 grandchildren, Joshua

(Larissa) Bryant, Caleb (Natasha) Bryant, and Jennifer (Shane) Anderson. 2 Stepgrandchildren,

Jeff Christian and Brian Christian. Also 4 great-grandchildren, Lazarus

Bryant, Callum and Collins Anderson, and Teagan Bryant. 5 step-great grandchildren,

Elijah, Tullia, Thaddeus, Kyra, and lan. 1 Step-greatgreat grandson, Hudson. David also

leaves behind his close friend for almost 30 years, Jan Cox.

A Military Honors ceremony will be held on Tuesday, April 26, 2022, 11:00 AM at the

National Memorial Cemetery, 23029 N Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ, 85024. Pastor Bill

Holland officiating. ln lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Legion,

Josph Q. Johnson Post 96, lnc. PO Box7096, Surprise, AZ 85374-0101.