Freddy Willis (Plainview)

Freddy “Fred” Neil Willis passed away peacefully on October 10, 2026, and entered the kingdom of heaven. Born on October 17, 1947, in Fort Worth, Texas, he was the son of Hiram Joel Willis and Ruby Marie Willis. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, October 15, 2026 at the First Baptist Church in Plainview. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Kornerstone Funeral Directors from 5:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.

The fourth of five children, Freddy was dearly loved by his rambunctious brothers and sister. After graduating from L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, he moved to Plainview, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Sociology from Wayland Baptist University. While attending Wayland, he met Gwen. God spoke to him the moment he saw her, and they built a beautiful life together when he married into the Daffern family of five girls becoming the first “brother and son”. Out of college, Fred was drafted by the Army. Upon returning from serving his country, he began working in child welfare until he and Gwen moved to serve as dorm parents at Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch. Valuing faith, family and service above all, Fred returned to Plainview to work for his father-in-law Roy at Daffern Steel & Supply most of his career. He was a Gideon, deacon and active member of First Baptist Church of Plainview singing in the choir, teaching Sunday school and helping any in need. Without any fanfare or recognition, he would help people find jobs, make sure someone had food or clean up a yard for an elderly neighbor. He and his best friend, Chuck Humphries, shared the love of God by chairing the committee that built the first stand-alone chapel in a Texas prison at the Formby Unit. Upon retirement his servant heart continued to lead him as he ministered weekly to residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The final years of his life brought him to Crockett for additional support as he battled the ravages of Alzheimer’s.

Throughout life he was a devoted husband and amazing dad. He loved in big and small ways by making breakfast for his family every morning or shopping to find the perfect outfit to give Gwen for Christmas or any special occasion. He always made time to go for a bike ride, coach a t-ball team or cheer his children and grandchildren on from the sidelines. Fred loved antique cars, a good auction and home-town parades. You never knew what piece of equipment might show up after he went to an auction. It could be a street sweeper, Austin-Healy Sprite convertible or an ambulance. He laughed easily, making up poetry and songs on a whim. He carried the joy and love of Christ in all he did.

Fred is proceeded in death by his parents; brothers Gary Willis and Carroll Willis; sister Judy Willis; niece Michelle Willis; and in-laws Roy Daffern, Georgia Daffern and Blaine Smith. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 57 years, Gwen; daughter Kathi Calvert; son Chris Willis and wife Charla; grandchildren Hudson Calvert, Clara Willis, Georgia Calvert and Anna Willis; brother David Willis and wife Marilyn; sisters-in-law Peggy Willis, Linda Waggoner, Elaine Graves, Pat Smith and Pam Daffern; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch, First Baptist Church of Plainview or Houston County SHARE.