C.C. was born on May 7, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Texas, to Claude C. Willis, Sr. and Ila Brown Willis. He grew up in Bay City, Texas, where he worked alongside his father on his rice farm. Those formative years instilled in him a deep respect for the land and the value of hard work-principles that would guide him throughout his life. From a young age, C.C. exhibited a strong drive and a genuine passion for farming, qualities that would define both his career and his character. His work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue a degree in Agriculture and Business at Texas Tech University. While at TTU, C.C. played football, where he served as team captain and even stepped into a coaching role for a year. It was also here that C.C. met the love of his life, Camella (Cammy) Moore, and they were married on September 4, 1965. Their 59 years of marriage were nothing short of a love story for the ages—a testament to their deep connection, shared adventures, and unwavering commitment to one another.
After graduation, C.C. proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, flying CH-53 helicopters during the Vietnam War. His service was a testament to his commitment to others, and his years in the military were an integral part of who he was. After his military service, C.C. and Cammy moved to rural Arizona, where he founded Western Sod, a business he poured his heart into for 33 years. The couple raised their 4 daughters in Casa Grande, Arizona, where C.C. cultivated his business and became an active member of the community. His faith played a central role in his life, and he was deeply involved in the First Presbyterian Church in Casa Grande, where he served as a Sunday School teacher, elder, and deacon. His service extended beyond the church, as he volunteered with Seeds of Hope and other local food banks, always seeking ways to give back.
In 2015, C.C. and Cammy returned to Texas to be closer to family. In his retirement, C.C. kept busy, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his 11 grandchildren. His generosity, humility, and unwavering faith will be remembered by all whose lives he touched.
C.C. is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Camella; his parents, C.C. and Ila Willis; and his brother, Robert Willis. He is survived by his four daughters: Heather Church (Steven, div) of Chandler, Arizona; Shelly Grosenbacher (Gavin) of Boerne, Texas; Katy Drucker (Joe) of Danville, California; and Wendy Werab (Brian) of Boerne, Texas. C.C. was also a proud “PopC” (Superman) to Mikel, David, Ethan, Holly, Olivia, Ella, Danny, Jack, Will, Sawyer, and Beckett, whose lives he deeply enriched. He is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Harp of Lubbock, Texas, and many nieces and nephews who adored him.
While C.C.'s family will miss him dearly, they take comfort in the knowledge that he is with Camella again and that his legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in each of them.
A private family service will be held in Boerne, Texas on January 18th. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.
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