Tom Willis

(From Konantz Warden Funeral Home)

Thomas Arlie Willis, 80, Lamar, Missouri departed this earth in Carthage, Missouri and opened his eyes to see Jesus on April 23, 2024. Thomas (Tom) was born in Albany, California to the union of Arlie Walter and Marjorie Louise (Hunt) Willis. 

As the firstborn child of evangelist parents, Tom moved around a lot -over 50 times- before graduating high school in Golden City, Missouri. After high school, Tom made his living as a cabinetmaker-a trade which allowed him to continue moving and seeing the land as he was accustomed to as a child. 

He met his wife, Doris Farnsworth, in Sunnyslope, Arizona and they made a life together, having three wonderful children. Together the family continued moving to Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and Missouri before separating in later years. 

Tom married Tammy Barnicle in 1997 and was blessed with two bonus daughters. The two separated in 2003. 

Tom’s life-travels provided research for his book, Boston Cowboy, that he published in 2018. While writing and editing his book, Tom was fortunate to meet a wonderful partner, Cheryl Potter. The couple stayed together for the last several years of Tom’s life. 

Anyone that knew Tom, knew his real passion was music - specifically bluegrass and gospel. Tom was part of several musical groups that played in Milford, Red Oak, the Lamar Free Fair, and other places all over the area. He also released a cd of songs that he had written. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, wife Doris Willis, and brothers David Willis and Richard Willis. 

Tom is survived by his girlfriend Cheryl Potter of Lamar, MO; children: Kimberly Murphy and husband Dennis of Surprise, AZ, Cindy Phillips of Corsicana, TX, and Tim Willis of Golden City, MO, bonus daughters: Bobby Knox and husband Zac of Liberal, MO and Betty Counts of Steelville, MO; grandchildren: Nathaneal Clark (Karen), Nicole McReynolds (Brice), Melandra Eccher (Colton), Jordyn Price (Tyler), Tyler Willis, Danaiza Lane, and Bronson (Heather) Murphy; 8 great-grandchildren; siblings: Aaron Willis (Glenna), Jim Willis (Cindy), Sharron Willis, Pam Ingle (Vernell), and John Willis (Katrina); several beloved nephews and nieces; and other much-loved family. 

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staffs at St Luke’s Nursing Home and Gentiva Hospice for taking such wonderful care of Tom in his last days. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday June 22, 2024 at Konantz Warden Funeral Home.