Barbara Ann Willis

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Sunrise: October 24, 1943                        Sunset: February 7, 2015

On February 7, 2015, God’s angels descended upon the earth and escorted Barbara Ann Willis, affectionately known as “Duffy”, through Heaven’s gates.  Barbara was born on October 24, 1943 to the late Clarence and Maizie Hill.  She was raised in Boston, MA and educated in the Boston Public School System, where she graduated with honors from Girls High.  After matriculating from Girls High, she pursued a career in secretarial work at Radio Shack.

It was here where she met the love of her life, Albert Willis. After a short courtship, the two married in 1964 and from this union had four children: Albert, Kenneth, Karen and Anissa. Barbara’s first passion was her family.  She took pride in being a wife, mother and homemaker.  Once her children were of school age, Barbara returned to work as secretary at the Holland Elementary School, where she remained for over 20 years until she retired in 2002.

Barbara loved baking, bird watching, knitting, and visiting with her siblings. She also enjoyed music and dancing and taking part in the many family outings including fishing with her husband, cookouts, and camping adventures. Barbara’s favorite holidays were Thanksgiving and Christmas, where she enjoyed baking her famous sugar cookies, cheesecake tarts, Jello cake, and blueberry buckle.

Barbara’s greatest attributes were her love and willingness to help everyone regardless of their personal circumstances or standing in life.  She saw the good in everyone.  Barbara leaves a legacy of love and compassion.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 51 years, Albert Willis of Randolph, MA, sons: Albert Willis of Randolph MA, Kenneth Willis and spouse Tamethea of Stoughton, MA; daughters: Karen Clay and spouse Darrell of Swampscott, MA, Anissa McKissick and spouse Gerald of Quincy, MA; grandchildren: Kenneth Willis Jr. and Kayla Willis, Horace and Andrew Hamilton, Darrell Clay, Jr., and great grandson, Kaidyn Willis. She also leaves behind: brothers Clarence and Robert Hill, sisters Anita Gatewood, Deborah McAuliffe, Theresa Hill, Nancy Hill, Donna Hill-Harris, their spouses and a host of nieces and nephews. Visiting hours will be held from 4-8PM Monday, February 16 at The Dolan Funeral Home 1140 Washington St., Lower Mills.  The funeral service will take place Tuesday, February 17 at 11AM at The Concord Baptist Church, 180 Blue Hill Ave., Milton.