Michael Jefferson Willis

Michael Jefferson Willis, 67, a lifelong resident of Crossett, passed away on April 6, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 2, 1957, to his parents, Jefferson and Leona Brantley Willis.

Mike graduated from Crossett High School in 1975, and soon began a thirty-two-year career with Burgess Williams, driving mail trucks and delivering mail to various post offices. Additionally, Mike served eight years with the Crossett Police Department, where he held several titles including jailer and animal control officer. He also spent several years as a crossing guard for the Crossett School District, ensuring the safety of children on their way to and from school.

Mike was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, cherishing his heritage, He found great joy in activities such as riding horses and participating in rodeos, In quieter moments, he could be found watching classic westerns or heartwarming Hallmark movies, or just cruising around, listening to music.

His enthusiasm for the holidays was infectious, and he delighted in decorating his home for his family and friends. He cherished his role as a family man proudly coaching his daughter's softball team,

Mike was known by many endearing nicknames, including Spanky and Cowpoke, but his beloved title was Papaw. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart, and he was their biggest fan.

Mike was sweet, generous, outspoken, and a bit of a comedian, and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and leaves behind, his wife of seventeen years, LaDonna Greene Willis; and eight children, Shawn Nicole Gregorcyk, and Keli Pullin (Casey) both of Crossett, Melissa Whitted (Shahn) of Spring, TX, Tiffany Robinson and Joshua Willis also of Crossett, Angella New (Mackie) of Junction City, AR, and Kristie Kelley (Roni), and Jessica Cooper (Hunter) both of Crossett; along with nine grandchildren, Madison Thomas, Alyssa and Tristan Gregorcyk, Kadyn Foreman, Brandon and Emma New, Blake Higginbotham, and Ava and Amelia Cooper.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 9th, at Medders Funeral Home, 1564 Hwy 52 W, in Crossett, with Bro. Tim Haas and Bro. Barry Carter, officiating. Honorary pallbearers are the former and current members of the Crossett Police Department, and the Ashley County Sheriff’s Office.

Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, at Medders Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope at Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Jefferson Willis, please visit our floral store.