James Edward Willis, Sr.

James Edward "Jimmie" Willis, Sr., 85 of Syracuse, New York departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, at his residence. James was born on November 29, 1935, in Clarksdale, Mississippi to the late Robert and Pearlie Willis. He was the oldest of 5 siblings.

James relocated to Syracuse, NY in the 1950's where he joined the Bellegrove Missionary Baptist Church, where he was known for his anointed singing voice which he used each and every Sunday at the Bellegrove Missionary Baptist Church, singing in the Bellegrove Senior Choir and Male Chorus. His voice led him to sing across the length and breadth of this country and was always asked to sing where he went. James was one of the Spiritual Harmonizers, where he sang with a group of men that were inspirational in their delivery of music.

James was employed for 38+ years at Oberdorfer Aluminum Foundry, and, of late, the Syracuse Police Department as a Crossing Guard.

James married the love of his life, the former Nettie Hawkins, and to that union two children were born, Jermaine and Nolita. James cherished and loved his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
James would always have a listening ear, and gave the advice that was needed if not always received at the time.

He was known to some as "Poppie", others as "Unc" and "Uncle James". He received everyone in his home with love and compassion.

James Willis was known for his melodious voice when singing in the secular community and while Praising the Lord in Church. When James Willis had the microphone, he would fill your spirit with whatever musical selection he was rendering. God blessed Brother Willis with a heavenly voice that will be truly missed.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Robert Willis, Sr.; his Mother, Pearlie Willis the love of his life; 1 sibling, Roscoe Willis; and a friend that was like a brother, Charlie Perry.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 49 years, Nettie Willis; his children, James E. Willis, Jr., Albert L. (Deborah) Willis, Joyce Willis, Jermaine (LaFredda) Willis, and Minister Nolita (Reverend Derrick) Tanyhill, Sr.; Three siblings, Robert (Jane)Willis, Jr., Mazell (Pastor Roy) Riley, and Arleanner Sanders; along with 39 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; 10 great great grandchildren; and a very special and close friend Elder Curtis Page.

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