Derryl James Willis' Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Derryl James Willis, 84 on May 25, 2025.
Derryl was born on January 8, 1941, to Eula Ida Platt and William Franklin Willis in Oklahoma City, OK. He is proceeded in death by his parents Eula and William, brother Ralph, his ex-wives, Marilyn, Bonita and stepson Jamie. He is survived by his daughters, Lynn & Chip, Jane (son Michael), and Stefanie & Richard (children Timothy & Samantha), sisters Lois and Betty and brother Kenneth.
He worked hard from an early age, delivering newspapers around town in order to help make ends meet for his family. He was the youngest of five siblings and enjoyed a close, loving relationship with family throughout his entire life.
In 1963, Derryl married Marilyn. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served our country with pride. While in the Navy, he and his wife Marilyn had two beautiful daughters Lynn and Jane.
After leaving the Navy, he attended electrician school and obtained his electrician license. Derryl worked for Southwestern Electric Company for several years. He entered the traffic signal business in 1978, building some of the first signalized intersections in Oklahoma.
In 1971, Derryl married Bonita and they moved to a rural farm area in Beggs, OK and they raised her children Stefanie and Jamie. They built a home, farmed the land, raised cattle, horses, chickens, and owned a gun club in Okmulgee. Derryl was entrepreneur at heart and following in his brother Ralph’s footsteps, he started the Bee-Line Striping Company. The business ultimately grew into Bee-Line Traffic and Control.
In January of 2017, Derryl met Joy through a mutual friend. They had an immediate connection. Joy, a loving and caring companion played an integral part in Derryl’s life.
Derryl enjoyed many things in his life including, hunting, fishing, boating, gardening, guns, reloading ammo, motorcycles, planes, corvettes, 4 wheelers, mowers, tractors, and he loved auctions more than anyone we know. He loved a great deal! Derryl also had a strong loyalty to his friends and family. He was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him and was idolized by his grandkids Michael, Timothy and Samantha.
His journey on this earth was one marked by love and generosity. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, and friends. We ask that you remember him for the profound impact he had on our lives. Those who knew Derryl will remember him for his infectious smile and overwhelming laughter, and his unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone he encountered. He had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.
A Memorial Service will be at Floral Haven on Monday, June 2nd at 10:00 am.
Webcasting is available at the following link for those that cannot attend the service in person:
Webcasting
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