Michael Joseph Willis

Michael Joseph Willis, 45, of 100 Cheerio Lane, Asheville, died on Tuesday, August 12, 2008, at the Laurels of Greentree Ridge Health Care Center. A native of Hampton, VA, Mr. Willis was a son of Jerry Smith McClure, and of the late Clarence J. Willis. Mr. Willis was also preceded in death by his step-father, Bob McClure, and his brother, Clarence J. Willis, Jr., who died in infancy. Always independent and living on his own, Michael achieved a lot in his life. He was an avid fisherman, and loved to travel and go to the beach. He rolled his wheelchair for 10 years in a row in the March of Dimes Walkathon. He also enjoyed photography, and was a member of his high school's photography club. He was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his mother, Michael is survived by his sister, Teresa Willis; nephew, Brandon Yoder, of Asheville; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, including special uncle, B.J. Willis, of Asheville. A funeral service for Michael will be at 3:00 p.m. Friday at the Groce Funeral Home chapel on Patton Ave. with the Rev. Don N. Welborn officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. His family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd St., New York, NY 10016.