of Little Rock, AR

October 5, 1934 - June 27, 2024

William A. (Lonnie) Willis, 89, of Little Rock, AR passed away Thursday, June 27, 2024. He was born in Hosston, LA on October 5, 1934. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Drew Willis; daughter, Kim Willis Keen and son-in-law, Randy Keen; son, William Scott Willis and daughter-in-law, Vickie Willis and their children, Andrew Willis and Amy Beth Willis; grandchildren, Jackson Willis, Cate Willis and Graham Willis and their mother, Margaret Willis and two great-granddaughters, Rosalie and Lucy Willis. He was preceded in death by son, Jeffrey Alan Willis; daughter, Stacy Willis and parents, Orvis C. Willis and Ruby Lee Tyson Willis.

Lonnie spent his formative years in Shreveport, Louisiana graduating from C.E. Byrd High School in 1952 and Centenary College in 1956 with a degree in business and economics. While at Centenary, he participated in the basketball and track programs. Upon graduation he received his commission as a second lieutenant and served in the U.S. Army as an armored officer rising to the rank of captain. His favorite assignment was that of company commander of a tank unit.

Upon leaving the service, he enjoyed a 34-year career with Prudential Insurance Company, first as an agent and ending his career as Managing Director in Arkansas and North Louisiana. He earned his professional designation as Financial Service Planner and received special recognition from his peers in both Shreveport and Little Rock, who elected him as president of multiple organizations for life underwriters, agents and financial service professionals. He was a life member of the industry's National Management Award. After retiring from Prudential in 1992, he served 8 years as Executive Director of the Union Rescue Mission and Dorcas House in Little Rock.

Mr. Willis served as Chairman of the Board of Guidestone Agency Services of the Southern Baptist Convention, where he supported the work of ministers and churches. He was also a member of the Board of the Women's Missionary Union Foundation, where he supported mission work throughout the world. As a member of Gideons International, he contributed to the placement of Bibles in hotels and other locations.

As a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock, he served many years as a deacon, Sunday School teacher, choir member and soloist and on numerous committees.

Beyond his professional achievements, he believed that nothing surpasses one's dedication to family and church. He hoped that the example he set for his wife and children will be magnified in the life of each grandchild.
''Well, done, thou good and faithful servant.'' Matthew 25:21

A memorial service will be held at Calvary Baptist Church (Little Rock) on July 8, 2024 at 11:00 followed by a private family burial. The family would like to express gratitude to Elder Independence Home Care for their love and care of our loved one.

Memorial donations can be made to Dorcas House,3001 Springer Blvd, Little Rock, AR 72206 (https://urmissionlr.org/dorcas-house/)

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Chenal Funeral Home
13801 Chenal Parkway
Little Rock, AR  72211
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com