James Earl Willis

Today we honor James Earl Willis, Sr., a man whose life was shaped by love, music, and quiet strength. Though he carried his struggles silently, he found joy in the people closest to him — his children and his fiancée; he found peace in the music that lifted his spirit.

James was born on August 16, 1967 in Benton Harbor, Michigan to the late Ollie W. Hornes and the late Roxanne Bryant Willis. He was educated in the Benton Harbor school system where he completed high school. He fulfilled his desire to serve our Country and enlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 16, 1987. In the military James successfully completed his training as an Electronics Equipment Repairman. He was awarded an Honorable Discharge upon the completion of his Tour of Duty on April 11, 1989.

James was a noble man who loved the Lord and acknowledged it his daily living. He leaned not on his own understanding but by the guidance of the Lord. He made his church home at Apostolic Tabernacle Church in Benton Harbor.

James secured employment at Brinks, Inc. as a driver and later as a security guard at the Thomas Frederick Juvenile Justice Center. He earned a Notary Public commission by the State of Indiana; that Commission expires June 1, 2031.

James made his home in South Bend, where he built meaningful connections and created a life centered on the family. A devoted father, he cherished every moment spent with his children.

Whether listening to music, sharing quiet conversations, or simply being present, he poured his heart into fatherhood. He found expression and refuge in the sounds of hip hop, rap, and Christian worship — music that spoke to both his spirit and his struggles.

James found love in his fiancée, Mary Jones, whose kindness, steadiness, and understanding brought comfort and joy into his life. Their bond was one of mutual respect, gentle support and great compatibility.

As James’s physical health began to decline, his daughter Ailiyah lovingly stepped forward as his primary caregiver. We greatly thank you Ailiyah. Your devotion and deep commitment to your father’s well-being were unwavering. Together with Mary, Ailiyah ensured that James received comfort, dignity, and excellent care throughout his journey.

James passed away at 9:20 A.M on Monday, May 11, 2026 following a brief stay at the Ernestine M. Raclin House – Hospice House of Mishawaka, Indiana. He leaves to cherish his loving memory, four beloved children, Earl Dantre Willis, Juwan Dantrell (Sierra) Willis and Ailiyah Iesha (Quea) Willis — their mother is Tonya Johnson; and Marquis Shaquille Willis whose mother is Lahoma Willis; four grandchildren; his fiancée, Mary Jones; six paternal siblings: Mable Avant, Ollie (Glenda) Hornes, Bessie Hornes, Betty (Benny) Smith, Brenda (Lawrence) Valentine and Thienda (Antonio) Whitelow; five maternal siblings, James Andrew Reece, David Reece, Henry Willis, Rosemary Winston and Barbara Reece; his two dearest friends, Mark and Connie Charles, along with a host of many family members, brothers and sisters in Christ and friends who will forever hold his memory close. Along with his parents, James was also preceded in death by his wife of 25 years, Lahoma Willis.

Those who knew James will remember his gentle presence, his quiet resilience, and the way he showed love through action more than words. He faced his challenges with dignity and carried himself with a strength that inspired those who walked beside him. His love will live in our hearts forever.

Service Friday 

May 22, 2026

Family Gathering 10:30

Memorial Service 11AM 

Laymen Chapel CME Church 

Repast Golden Corral 

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