Brenda Willis

Brenda Jane Willis, 74, of Pleasant Hill, was born December 23, 1941 in Malden, Missouri, the daughter of John William "Bill" and Loretta Marie (Michael) Anderson. She departed this life Friday, October 14, 2016 at 4:23pm surrounded by her family.

Brenda was a 1959 Malden High School graduate. She went on to graduate at the top of her class from the Research School of Nursing.

On November 27, 1959, she was united in marriage to Bobby Joe Willis in Malden. He preceded her in death on December 5, 2012.

Brenda was employed as a nurse at John Knox Village for over 25 years. She enjoyed playing bridge with the same group of friends for over 50 years. She was an avid college sports enthusiast, especially football and basketball, and many of her vacations revolved around NCAA Tournaments. She and Bob also enjoyed traveling in their RV. They traveled through most of the United States and into Canada and Mexico.

Brenda has made her wishes clear for some time now. She had two specific wishes. First, she wanted to see her latest great grandson born with whom she was able to spend many hours. Second, she said she couldn't vote for Trump or Clinton, so she opted for a third choice.

Brenda was also preceded in death by her parents; one son, Brian J. Willis; an infant sister, Barbara Lou Anderson; and sister, Susie Todd.

She is survived by two sons, Bradley J. (and Beth) Willis of Greentown, Indiana, and Brent J. (and Helene) Willis of Pleasant Hill; one daughter Beth J. (and Lance) Crull of Edna, Texas; eight grandchildren, Venecia, Rebecca, Jeremy, Adam, Brieanna, Brooke, Sarah, and Jaime; four great grandchildren, Camden, Kaitlyn, Victoria, and Ayden; niece, Barb Davis other relatives and a host of friends.

Cremation has been accorded.

Per her wish, a celebration of life dinner with football playing on TV was held 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, October 20, 2016 at the funeral home. All food and drinks were be provided. Everyone was invited to come wearing casual clothes and supporting their favorite team.

Private inurnment will be in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the St. Judes Children's Hospital, the Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, or the Salvation Army and may be sent in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stanlelydickeyfuneralhome.com Arrangements: Stanley-Dickey Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong, Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550