Roy Willis

Roy Willis, age 83, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Rock Creek of Ottawa.

He was born on March 10, 1943, in Morris, Illinois, to Vern and Stella (Lashley) Willis. Roy grew up in Braidwood, Illinois, as one of ten children and graduated from Braidwood High School.

In October 1962, Roy was united in marriage to Sharon Peel. Their union was blessed with a son, Doug, in 1963. They later divorced.

Roy married Delores Faye Badders on July 3, 1978, in Miami, Oklahoma. Together they shared many wonderful years filled with travel, adventure, and making memories. They enjoyed visiting Alaska, the Caribbean, the West Coast, New Hampshire, and many other destinations, often taking bus trips and cruises together.

Roy spent much of his working life as a truck driver, working for DeBrick, Danny Lambeth, Central Bag Company, and as an independent driver. Later, he worked in maintenance at the Walmart Distribution Center in Ottawa. After retirement, Roy and Delores lived in Texas at River Ranch Resort, where Roy became known as the go-to maintenance man, always willing to help whenever something needed fixing. They later returned to Kansas and spent many years in Wellsville.

Roy enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved deep-sea fishing in Texas, camping in his RV, traveling, and spending time on his pontoon boat. Whether on the road, at a campground, at a casino, or out on the water with a fishing pole in hand, Roy was happiest when surrounded by family, friends, and the outdoors.

His faith was important to him throughout his life. Roy was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Wellsville and later attended the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Ottawa. He was also a member of the Eagles and Elks lodges.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Sally Smith; and his siblings Pete, Robert "R.A.", Les, Danny, Coy, Rudy, Maxine, Ferena, and an infant sibling.

He is survived by his wife, Delores Willis of Ottawa; his son, Doug Willis of Springfield, Illinois; his siblings, Betty and Gary; and many other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

Roy will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his willingness to help others, his love of traveling, fishing, and adventure, and the many memories he made with those he loved.

The family will hold a private gathering to honor Roy's life.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or the Seventh-day Adventist Church and may be left in the care of the funeral home. Condolences may be left for the family through Feuerborn Family Funeral Service.