On the dark stormy night of July 2, 2017 Jerry Kay Willis of Valley Springs took his last breath at Washington Regional Medical Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He was 74.

Jerry was born on April 24, 1943 in Pindall, Arkansas to Charles Kay Willis and Demoie Kathleen ( Wilson) Willis. He loved to fish the Yakima River as a child and was involved in activities such as playing football, basketball, and even trumpet in the band. The family moved back and forth between Benton City, Washington and St. Joe, Arkansas and Jerry completed his education by graduating from Western Grove High School. There he met and married his wife, Joann Carol Hancock, enlisted in the army, and was stationed with his wife in Meppel, Holland. After his service, he spent several years as a milkman in Springdale, Arkansas, worked for Standard Oil Company in Richmond, California, then moved back to Boone County where he worked his way up to plant superintendent at Claridge Products, where he retired after 30 years.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved dog, Happy.

Besides his wife, Joann, he is survived by three children, daughter April Willis of Maumelle, son Justin Willis of Valley Springs, and son Wade and wife Carla Willis of Harmon and their children Emily and Evan. He is also survived by three siblings, Bennie and wife Vickie Willis of Pindall, Ronnie and wife Sue Willis of Harmon, and Kima and husband Kevin Beeman of Harrison.

The funeral will be held on Friday July 7, 2017 at 2:00PM in the Coffman Funeral Home C hapel officiated by Pastor Dennis Selvidge with a graveside burial to follow at Holmes Cemetery.

There will be a visitation on Thursday July 6, 2017 from 6:00-8:00PM in the chapel.

Pallbearers will be Donald Hancock, Donnie Hancock, Todd Rea, Cole Rogers, Scott Willis, and Steven Cunningham. Honorary pallbearers will be Bennie Willis, Ronnie Willis, Ed Wagner, Richard George, Dennis Wilson, and all of Jerry's buddies at the Valley Springs store.

Jerry's strength and resilience touched many lives during his short time on earth. He was a natural leader for all around him and always made sure to stop and speak to everyone he met. His easy going manner and light hearted sense of humor made him a favorite companion of many and he will continue to live in the hearts of family and friends.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28)

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Assembly of God Church, 1329 W. Stephenson, Harrison, AR, 72601.

On-line condolences may be left at coffmanfh.com.