William "Leon" Willis

William Leon Willis, born April 5, 1941, in Tallassee, Alabama, passed away surrounded by his family on September 24, 2024. A 1959 graduate of Tallassee High School, where he served as Class President and President of the Student Government Association, Leon, lived a life marked by dedication to God and His church, his family, career, and community.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, U.L. and Irval Willis Goodman, his brother Kenneth Willis, and his beloved son, Chris Willis. He is survived by his devoted wife of more than 51 years, LaRose Willis, and his children, Nikki Allen (Michael) and Monica Kachelman (John). He also leaves behind a legacy of love in his grandchildren, Alyssa Cameron (Barrett), Summer Willis, Marley Kachelman, and Tenley Kachelman, as well as his step-grandchildren, Tucker Allen, Taylor Allen, Rhett Allen (Paige), and “adopted” granddaughter Holli Webb (Spencer). Leon is also survived by his brother Jerry Willis (Kathy), who was a constant source of support throughout his life.

A dedicated public servant, Leon spent many years as an Alabama State Trooper, serving on a special detail for Governors George and Lurleen Wallace. He transitioned to a successful career at Allstate Insurance, where he worked for 31 years and rose to become the district claims manager for the Mobile and Montgomery offices and state fraud claims investigator. In his later years, Leon served as Chief Security Officer at Faulkner University and as the Facilities Manager for University Church of Christ.

Leon’s commitment to his community was evident in his involvement in the Kiwanis Club, the Montgomery Car Club, and his service on numerous boards, including his 33-year tenure on the Alabama Christian Academy’s Board of Directors and various positions with the Towne Lake Homeowner's Association. He was known for his leadership, integrity, focus on Christian education, and his constant desire to give back.

Leon was a faithful and active member of the Lord’s Church. He was baptized shortly after marrying LaRose and spent the remainder of his life in service to God and His church in Montgomery, spending more than 40 years as a deacon overseeing various ministries.

A man of deep faith and boundless generosity, Leon’s presence will be sorely missed by all who knew him. His family, friends, and community will forever cherish the love, humor, wisdom, and dedication he brought into their lives.

A service to honor Leon’s life and legacy will be held at University Church of Christ at 11:30 AM on Saturday, September 28, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to Alabama Christian Academy or to the benevolent fund at University Church of Christ.