Willie Weis

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Wilma Elaine Weis, known lovingly to family and friends as Willie, passed away on April 16, 2026, in Neosho, Missouri, at the age of 91.

She was born on April 7, 1935, in Long Beach, California, to Harold and Irene Thompson. Willie grew up in Long Beach and attended Long Beach High School, where she was a talented baton twirling member of the Ted Otis Twirlerettes. She graduated in 1954 and was remembered as a spirited tomboy who much preferred playing baseball with the neighborhood boys than sitting at a piano like her sister. She often said, “No frilly dresses for me!” and carried that independent spirit throughout her life.

On November 13, 1959, Willie married the love of her life, Lloyd Alfred Weis, in Long Beach, California. Together they shared 46 years of marriage and built a life centered on family, hard work, and devotion to one another. In June of 1974, they moved their family to Bella Vista, Arkansas, and later purchased a farm in Pineville, Missouri, where Willie found joy in the simple blessings of country living and the closeness of family. Her proudest achievement was raising her children and helping build the beautiful family that surrounded her with love.

Willie enjoyed a life filled with the things she loved most. She found happiness mushroom hunting, fishing, boating, knitting, crocheting, and spending time outdoors. She loved animals, especially her dogs, and she enjoyed traveling and taking wine trips. Above all, she treasured time with her family and many grandchildren, whose visits and laughter meant the world to her.

Those who knew Willie will remember her as a very kind, loving, wise, and fearless woman. She was the best momma ever, and her family will forever cherish the warmth, strength, and steady guidance she gave so freely.

She is survived by her children, Vern Weis, of Roseburg, Oregon, Lori Bethel, of Anderson, Missouri, Larry Weis and wife, Virginia, of Theodosia, Missouri, and Valerie Miller and husband, Scott, of Rogers, Arkansas. She also leaves behind 15 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her great pride and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Weis, her parents, Harold and Irene Thompson, her sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Dirk Van Voorhis, and her son-in-law, Dennis Bethel.

Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri with Pastor Oren Alcorn officiating. Arrangements are under the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri. Memorial donations can be made to the Friends of Oso Foundation at www.friendsofoso.com, benefiting rescue dogs.