Tony Lee Willis, 83, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on October 13, 2023 at Atrium Health Main in Charlotte, NC.

Born in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Max Odell Willis and Grace Leona Wilson and was preceded in death by his brother Ned Daniel Willis. Tony graduated from Swannanoa High School in the class of 1959, after which he went to work as a signal maintainer for Southern Railway (now Norfolk Southern) for 43 years. He retired from Norfolk Southern in 2004. Tony was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain and was an active Mason and Shriner. He enjoyed racing, an active fan of NASCAR and of football and he loved motorcycles. Tony enjoyed riding his Honda Gold Wing anytime he got a chance, and he and his wife Agnes belonged to Gold Wing Road Riders Association. He enjoyed working outside around the house and loved working with his hands; whittling was a particularly favorite pastime. Tony was a hard worker who modeled a strong work ethic to his children and grandchildren. He wanted everyone to know how much he loved his "personal angel," Agnes. His loved ones will miss him dearly but honor his tradition to never say "goodbye"--always "see you later."

SURVIVORS: Wife of 58 years, Agnes Willis, of the home.

Children: Rick Lee Willis of Gastonia and Tanya Willis Browning of Kings Mountain

Grandchildren: Alexandrea Clara Willis and Max Evan Browning

Tony is additionally survived by his two sisters-in-law, Reatha Blackwell and Martha Willis, and by numerous nieces and nephews.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Monday, October 16, 2023 at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain with Reverend Dr. John Sloan officiating.

VISITATION: Prior to the service from 1:00 - 1:50 PM in the Stained Glass Room at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain.

MEMORIALS: Memorials in Tony's memory may be made to First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain at 605 W. King St., Kings Mountain, NC 28086 or to Shriners Hospitals for Children at P.O. Box 1525, Ranson, WV 25438

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