James Willis (Lansing)

James Willis of Lansing, Michigan passed away July 2, 2017 at his residence. He was 75 years old. James was the oldest of eight children born to Lula Mae Crenshaw in Hermondale, Missouri.

James confessed his hope in Christ early in his life. James was adventurous. When he was a young boy, he would often go on fruit picking harvests in different states, hundreds of miles from home. He finally settled in Lansing, Michigan in 1967, working for GM (General Motors) and Brown Brothers Construction Company. James enjoyed hunting, fishing, entertaining and cooking.

It is said by his family and friends that he made the best Chicken & Dumplings that ever crossed their lips. His presence will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

He leaves to cherish his memory: Four daughters; Margaret Brown (Walter) and Michele Chukwu of Chicago, Illinois; Cheryl Ashe (Morris) of Newbern, Alabama; Miracle Brock (Keenan) of Lansing, Michigan. Four brothers; Ernest Crenshaw (Ida) of South Haven, Mississippi; Joe Crenshaw of Lansing, Michigan; Willie Taylor (Linda) of Portageville, Missouri; AJ Miller of Deering, Missouri. Three sister; Betty Weed (Joe) of St. Louis, Missouri; Arlean Crenshaw of Lansing, Michigan; Althea Davis Strong (James) of Santa Ana, California. Three aunts; Eddie B. Seay and Josephine Robinson of Cleveland, Ohio; Martha Clark of Phoenix, Arizona. Eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other dear relatives and friends.

James’ parents and one sister preceded him in death.

Your Love will stay with us forever.