Mr. Lonnie L. Willis Sr.

UTICA - Mr. Lonnie L. Willis, Sr., age 65, went home to his Savior when he passed away on Friday, September 22, 2017 in the comfort of his home with those he loved in his heart. Born in Newburgh, New York on October 10, 1951, Lonnie was the son of the late Turner B. and Georgia (Hobbs) Willis. He and his family moved to Utica and locally he attended the Utica School of Commerce. Lonnie shared in a relationship of 44 years with Gloria J. Peak and they blessed their union when they wed in 1979. Gloria will give testimony to Lonnie’s respect and kindness to her and how she made their ‘house’ a home. He also knew the love and companionship of Dorothy Sue Eversley. Lonnie worked at the Bendix Corporation, now Lucas Aerospace, as an assembler for many years. He was dedicated to his job and he developed quite a few good friends during his career. Concurrently, he “dispensed spirits” at local establishments. In retirement, he continued to find ways to keep busy, so he accepted a position at the Utica Rescue Mission and was lastly a Claims Adjuster at Utica National Insurance Company. He was a hard worker and he took care of his family… it was important to him. Lonnie was an admirable man and an awesome Dad. He was a smooth, ‘laid back’ cat with a charming smile, a sharp wit, and a keen sense of humor. He would whistle an entire song while friends and family sang the words to accompany him. Lonnie loved Juicy Fruit Gum, a pack of Winstons, the newspaper, a cup of Maxwell House Instant Coffee, and Lotto tickets! He was often referred to as “El lono diablo” as a way to explain his sleek and smooth attitude, devilish charm, and good heart. He thanked the Lord for the blessing of his six children, grandkids, great-grandkids, and two women who adored him. He never walked alone in this life; he always had the love of his family by his side. Christmas was his favorite holiday and he always had a real tree. His family decorated it and the presents were placed in their separate spaces, not under the tree but in their own piles. Family and company picnics were grand times, just relaxing and telling stories. He could ‘butcher up a chicken’ and clean a fish like no one else, following in his mother’s footsteps. He was also an avid reader of books, especially Perry Mason mysteries. He enjoyed word searches, crossword puzzles, The Price Is Right, old Westerns, and classic TV series. In more recent years, he pursued a variety of entertaining pastimes. In earlier years, he belonged to bowling leagues at the Pin-O-Rama and he taught his children to give this sport a roll. He played softball at Wankel Field and was very versatile on the pitcher’s mound, behind the plate, and in the outfield… he was very competitive and gave it his all. He was a Los Angeles Lakers fan and an all-around sportsman. Lonnie became a believer and began to know the Lord at the very end. Alleluia! Amen! Lonnie is survived by his wife, Gloria; his children and their loves, Walter L. Peak, Regina Jefferson-Peak, Latwaunya “Boot” and McKinley “Jr” West, Lonnie L. Jr. and Rebecca Willis, Anthony L. Willis, and Jamiel Peak; his companion, Dorothy; his 17 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sister, Angela Edge; twin brother Ronnie Willis, and brothers and sister-in-law Robert and Alma Jean Willis, and Gary Willis. He also leaves his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Robert Knight, LeRoy Peak, Pearlie Peak, Tiretha and Terrence Bond, Willie Gosier, Katherine Peak, Carolyn Peak, and John Peak. He was blessed with many wonderful friends with special mention of Steven Carter, Roger Jackson, and Fred Winston. He was predeceased by his siblings, Alice Knight, and Turner Peterson; and his brother-in-law, Thomas Gosier. The family extends their thanks to Dr. Thomas John of the Slocum Dickson Medical Group for his compassionate care; and Dorothy who was by his side supporting him during his final journey. Visitation will be held Saturday from 2:00-4:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit flowers. Lonnie’s Home Going and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday afternoon at 4:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. David J. Patterson officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in New Forest Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Lonnie L. Willis Sr.

October 10, 1951 - September 22, 2017