Ernie Willis, age 81 of Defiance, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2026 at Majestic Care of Bryan, Ohio.

He was born in Coeburn, Virginia on May 31, 1944 to the late George and Della (Helton) Willis, and was a 1965 graduate of Coeburn High School. He is a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1965 to 1967. Ernie was a member of VFW #3360 in Defiance. He worked at Dinner Bell Foods for many years and then at Sauders until his retirement in 2006. He loved his garden and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and singing Bluegrass.

Ernie is survived by his loving wife, Ginger Willis of Defiance, his sons, Tony Willis, Randy Willis, and Eric (Jessica) Willis, all of Defiance, his grandchildren, Dregon and Dallas Willis, and his brother, Bill Willis.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son, Mark Willis, and eight brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A graveside service will be at 11:00 am on Friday, January 30th at Riverside Cemetery, with military honors conducted by VFW #3360.

Memorials are suggested to Alzheimer's Association.

Alzheimer's Association
480 W Dussel Dr Suite 140, Maumee OH 43537
Tel: 1-419-537-1999
Web: https://www.alz.org/nwohio