Philip Earl Willis

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Philip Earl Willis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who left this world peacefully on April 21, 2026, at the age of 90. Phil was born on June 10, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio to Earl and Rhoda Willis.

Phil worked as a supervisor in the grocery industry, with his career marked by his hard work and determination. Above all, he was a family man whose love for his wife -of 70 years and high school sweetheart- Marilou, his sons,  Ned (Donna) and Dan (Robin Miller), and his granddaughter, Ashley, defined his life. Family was most important to him and each day was an opportunity for him to express his unwavering support and affection. In his younger years, he was always active in his son’s lives coaching their little league teams, attending their soccer and baseball games.

An enthusiastic sports fan, Phil cherished the thrill of Cincinnati Reds baseball and enjoyed supporting the Xavier Musketeers on the basketball court. He also loved NASCAR racing. He served in the US army. As a music lover he supported  the Cincinnati Pops for many years. In his spare time, he found joy in gardening, bird watching, and traveling with his family. Phil knew how to savor life’s simplest pleasures and shared a meal with his loved ones as often as he could.

Phil is survived by his devoted loving wife, Marilou Willis (nee Wildern), his two sons,  Ned (Donna) Willis and Dan (Robin Miller) Willis, his cherished granddaughter, Ashley Willis, and his beloved sisters, Rebecca and Rhoda Willis, his nieces and nephews, Jim, Dianne, Jack, Phil, David, Jenness, Denice, angel neighbors, friends, and church family.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Rhoda Willis, and brother, Roy Willis.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 at 12:00pm at Faith Lutheran Church, 8265 Winton Rd Cincinnati, OH 45231.

In honor of Phil, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital on his behalf by visiting https://www.stjude.org.

Phil will be profoundly missed but will forever be remembered for the love he shared, the laughter he spread, and the impact he made on the lives of those he loved. May he rest in peace.