James C. Willis Jr.

James C. Willis Jr., 81, of Lanexa, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on Jan. 24, 2026.

Jim was born on Aug. 27, 1944, in Clearwater, Florida. Upon graduating from Clearwater High School, he joined the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, ultimately serving in Okinawa, Japan. He returned to Florida and worked as a surveyor for the City of Clearwater Engineering Department. After moving to New Kent, Jim went to work for the Virginia Department of Transportation, retiring as a Utilities Inspector.

Growing up in Clearwater, Jim developed a passion for the outdoors. He had a deep knowledge and love of wildlife, enjoying the water, fishing, and hunting. He developed an interest in gardening and was very proud of his bounty of tomatoes, sweet corn, and cantaloupe. Jim enjoyed his retirement years appreciating the sights and sounds of nature from his back porch.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James C. Willis; mother, Mary Ann Hubbard Willis; and aunt, Jean Hubbard.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Kathy Willis; and daughters, Maryanne and Ashleigh Willis.

Interment will be in Clearwater, Florida.