Mr. James Leland "Buddy" Willis

January 24, 1934 - February 22, 2021

Buddy was born on January 24, 1934 in Tallapoosa County to Ruth M. Willis and Leland Curtis Willis. He passed peacefully at home on February 22, 2021. The family will have a private graveside service at Hillview Memorial Park on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. Buddy was a loving husband to Joyce Price Willis for 66 years; father to Jamie W. Dark (John), and Leeanne W. George (Fred); grandfather to Chris George (Amanda), Leland G. Gonzales (John David), Rod Henderson (Ashley), Aly Henderson, and Carson Willis Dark; and great-grandfather to Harper George, and Wesley George. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Paula Ann Lenz; sister, Mary Ann Woods; and his parents. He was the purchasing director for Russell Corp. from 1956 until his retirement in 1997. He was very involved in the Alexander City community and was president at various times of the Kiwanis Club, Jaycees, Lion’s Club, a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and on the committee for the Boy Scouts of America Golf Tournaments. He was a deacon and choir member of the First Baptist Church and the song leader of the Church in the Pines in its early years. He served in the Army Reserves for seven years and graduated with a B.S. degree in Business from Auburn University. Buddy loved the game of golf and was a low handicapper. He was a great teller of stories and jokes and kept his family and friends entertained throughout the years. The family would like to thank his special caregiver, LaGreta Woody. The family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of contributions to FUMC Backpack Buddies, at 310 Green St. Alexander City, AL 35010.