James Willis was born on July 23, 1949, to the parents of late William James and Mary Lee Willis in Fairfield, TX. James received his formal education in Dallas Public School District. He retired as a Fitter Welder. He developed a life long love for fishing, building & racing cars and a hobby of frequent visits to the casinos with an attempt of hitting that major jackpot.

In 1988, James met the love of his life and best friend Gwendolyn "Elaine" and after  10 years they became as one in Holy Matrimony.

He was proceeded .in death by his parents William James and Mary Lee Willis; brother J,B. Willis, (3) sisters: Versie Mae Willis, Thelma Ward and Mary Jane Willis.

James leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 34 years Gwendolyn Elaine Willi; (7) sons: Reginald Willis, Tony Willis, Kenneth Willis (Fat), Keith Willis, DeRamius Cooks, Adam Cooks and Rodney Cooks; (1) daughter Gepetta Lewis (Wayland); (5) sisters; Annie Pearl Hunt, Retha Mae Lark, Margie Pitts (Lawrence), Joyce Ann Willis and Bobby Jean Mills and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.

Special acknowledgment to bonus son Dean Ray Coleman and niece Shimere Dameron "Messy".