James Kirby Willis Jr.

On Friday. December 20th, 2024, James Kirby Willis Jr. (Jake) passed away surrounded by family after a short battle with cancer. Jake graduated from Monacan High School, Elon University, and completed his Masters Degree at Virginia Commonwealth University. Additionally, Jake was an alumnus of the Miller School of Albemarle, where he served on its board. He volunteered in life with many organizations, most notably his four decades at Manchester Volunteer Rescue Squad, where he was an Assistant Chief, teacher, preceptor, crew leader, and EMT-B. He loved giving back to his community, teaching the next generation of EMTs, and participating in competition teams to encourage the improvement of emergency care delivery. He finished his professional career as a Senior Safety Manager, always making sure “his guys” went home safe because he loved them as if they were family. Jake always tried to be at his son’s events, from rec league soccer to middle school chorus and band concerts to senior night on the football field. He became “Grumps” late in life once his pride and joy granddaughter was brought home.

In life, Jake was an inspiration to all he met and a hero or a lifesaver to many. His presence will surely be missed. He lives on in the hearts and minds of his wife, sons, granddaughter, extended family, and coworkers. He is gone too soon, but he will never be forgotten. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jake’s honor to either the American Cancer Society or the Miller School of Albemarle.