Bob "Coach" Willis' Obituary
Robert Willis, 83, long-time Memphian, passed away from an extended illness, Monday April 13, 2015 at Methodist Hospice. Robert attended Vollentine and was a graduate of Central High School, class of 1950 where he played football and was involved in many activities. He attended Memphis State then coached football at Central High and coached/taught at Richland Junior High, which earned him his nickname, Coach. In 1964, he left the teaching/coaching profession and became a home builder. His Company, Old Towne Homes was well-respected and highly regarded in the home building community. In 1981, he was president of the Memphis Home Builders Association. He was an avid golfer and runner, a world traveler, a reader, involved in Boys Club of Memphis, and he was a mentor to many young men within his profession. He enjoyed spending time with his four grandchildren. Robert had four brothers, two of whom he is survived by, Donald Willis of Memphis and Bill Willis of Memphis. He had three children, Robert A. Willis Jr., Carol Willis Choukalas, and Richard A. Willis. He is survived by Robert Jr. of Collierville and Carol Choukalas of Germantown; his four grandchildren, Mary Choukalas West, Peter Michael Choukalas, Samantha Choukalas, and Isabella Choukalas. He was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 19 from 5:00-8:00pm. The Memorial service will be held Monday April, 20 at 1:00pm. All services will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home and Cemetery. Donations may be sent to Helping People God’s Way, 7940 Fischer Steel Road, Cordova, TN, 38018 in his memory.
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