Funeral Arrangements and obituary for our Grandfather: Eugene Russell Willis - 96 Eugene Russell Willis; born October 28th, 1917 in Hunting Quarters (now Atlantic), NC, to Ruby & Charlie Smiles Willis, and peacefully went home to be with his loving wife, Maggie, on March 30th , 2014 at Heritage Healthcare Facility, formerly Taylors Extended-Care, in Sealevel, NC. Eugene was preceded in death by his wife of 74 years, Maggie Hamilton Willis, and his daughter, Susan Lynn Salter. Eugene was a commercial fisherman when he was drafted into the U.S. Army on February 21st, 1945. He served at Fort Bragg, NC, and Berlin, Germany, in the 308th Field Artillery Battalion, Battery A, as a Landing Craft Operator, Field Lineman, and Military Police Officer. While stationed in Berlin, he was in charge of guarding over 1200 prisoners of war, mainly comprised of Hitler’s SS and Gestapo officers. During his enlistment he received; the World War II Victory Medal, ETO Occupation Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and a commendation from President Harry Truman. On July 8th, 1949, he received an Honorable Discharge. After his service in the Army, he came home and opened Willis Texaco until 1977, when he converted the business to Drum Inlet Seafood, Inc., which is still in business to this day. He was a lifetime member of the Atlantic United Methodist Church, devout North Carolina Tar Heels fan, commercial fisherman, avid hunter, decoy & artifact collector, local heritage preserver, and philanthropist, until his death. Eugene owned one of the largest decoy collections on the east coast, comprised of over 65 years of documented inventory. For more depth into his occupation, the collection can be moderately viewed at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum in Harkers Island, NC. Eugene was active in the Democratic Party, and with help from his longtime friend, Governor Bob Scott, was responsible for having Drum Inlet blasted out of Core Banks by the State in 1971. Eugene diligently promoted the marine commerce and commercial fishing industries. Eugene was a much loved, irreplaceable member of his family, and a pillar of the Down East community. He is survived by his Daughter; Dora Willis Jackson & husband Johnny. Grandsons; Thomas Dean Salter & wife Judy of Atlantic and John David Jackson & wife Gertie of Morehead City. Great Grandsons; Thomas Russell Salter & wife Devan of Atlantic Beach, Jordan Dean Salter & wife Alicia of Morehead City, Mason S. Salter of Atlantic, Morgan M. Salter of Atlantic, John Jackson, Jr. of Morehead City. Great-Great Grandsons; Liam Thomas Salter and Wyatt Landon Salter. Service will be at 2:00 PM - Tuesday, April 1st, 2014 at the Atlantic United Methodist Church. A graveside service will follow at Over-The-Brook Cemetery on Core Sound Loop Road. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum.
Posted on: Sun, 30 Mar 2014 21:33:42 +0000
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