John Dewey Willis passed away May 14, 2017, at Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina. He died on his birthday that he shares with his wife. A native of Craven County, he was born May 14, 1936, to the late Errell Dewey and Lena Ipock Willis.
After attending Bridgeton School and New Bern High School in 1954, he served in the Army and returned to work at Ives Oil Company for 30 years. He also worked at A.J. Ballard Oil Company and Craven County Board of Education.
John enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and taught them to drive at early ages. He loved the outdoors and made memories crabbing and telling them the important things they need to know in life.
He loved his family and was a friend to all he encountered. He always had something funny to say.
John is survived by his wife Barbara of 60 years; son John D. Willis, II (Joanne); daughter Wanda Willis Goodson (Broughton); grandchildren Jessica Willis, John Willis, III, Broughton Goodson, II and Benjamin Willis Goodson. Also surviving are his sisters Marguerite Fadler (Bob) and Marie Lansche; sister-in-laws Joy Sutton and Marie Wetherington; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, May 18 at Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow the service at Greenleaf Memorial Park.
Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Cotten Funeral Home.
6 Entries
May 31, 2017
I am sorry for your loss. May the God of comfort be with you during your time of mourning. Isaiah 61:1,2 ; Matthew 5:4
May 18, 2017
Tommy and Linda Gaskins
Tommy and I are saddened to hear of John Dewey's passing. He was a good neighbor and a very kind man. He was loved and will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
May 18, 2017
Sending all of you love, peace and strength during this time and days to come.
Staff at Coastal Insurance, New Bern,
May 17, 2017
Linda Edwards Chandler
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 17, 2017
Casey Parnell
We send you thoughts of peace and courage.
May 17, 2017
Eddie & Jennifer Toler
Barbara and family; we were sorry to hear of John Dewey's death. He was an inspiration to so many people, us included. He always had a smile and kind words to share. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers that God will give you comfort and strength during this difficult times and in the days ahead. Look at the many, many memories you have made and reflect on them often.
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