Keith Dennis Willis

Mr. Keith Dennis Willis, age 67, reported to Heaven for his last watch on Thursday, March 10, 2022.

Keith and his twin sister Kay were born in Elberton on July 6, 1954, to James Ennis Willis and Mildred Lucille Carlan Willis. He is preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; only son, Brian Keith Willis; sister, Dale Willis McCurley; and brother, Willard Willis.

He is survived by his wife, Vickie Lee Willis; daughter, Christa Willis Deal and Beau Bailey; granddaughter, Raelyn Deal; grandsons: Branson Willis, Liam Bailey, and Chevy Bailey; sisters: Deane Willis Heaton, Malita Willis Sanders, and Kay Willis Shaw (Rawn); mother-in-law, Martha Lee; sister-in-law, Donna Lee Dixon (Eric); brother-in-law, Allen Lee (Sonya); and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

A 1972 graduate of Elbert County High School, Keith lived a life of service to others. In his younger years while working in the granite industry, he volunteered for the Centerville Fire Department. He then went on to be a firefighter and paramedic for the City of Elberton and Elbert County. Keith attained the level of Captain after several years of training, and was affectionately called “Cap’n” by all who worked for him and knew him.

He was awarded Elbert County EMT of the Year and the Lifesaver Award in 2012. Keith helped many people during his career and he and his crew saved countless lives in his city and community.

After retirement, Keith enjoyed his farm and cows, and cutting hay for the community, many times without pay just to help out. He was a lifelong member of Concord United Methodist Church.

Funeral services celebrating Keith’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 15, at 3 o’clock at Concord United Methodist Church with the Rev. Thomas Moon officiating. Public Service Honors will follow during the graveside service in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will include Randy Lane, Ethell Harvell, Rodney Willis, Danny Gaines, Gary Booth, and Roger Hobbs.

There will be no formal visitation; however, Keith will lie instate at Berry Funeral Home on Monday, March 14, from 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m. for those wishing to pay their respects and sign the guestbook. The family may be contacted at the residence, 1858 Hartwell Highway, Elberton.

Contributions may be made in his memory to Concord United Methodist Church, 2515 Harmony Road, Elberton, GA 30635 or to University Cancer and Blood Center, 3320 Old Jefferson Road, Building 700, Athens, GA 30607.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. Keith Dennis Willis.