Verlin David Willis

Verlin David Willis, 86, of Hickory, peacefully entered eternal rest in the embrace of his Savior on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation following a period of declining health.

Verlin was born on July 28, 1939, in Yancey County to the late Joseph Willis and Wilma Heilman Willis. Verlin’s life was marked by service and dedication, first as a proud U.S. Navy Veteran, then as a skilled and reliable truck driver with MDI, Jiffey Manufacturing, and Midstate, where he formed lasting friendships and earned the respect of all who knew him. A devoted charter member of Freedom Independent Baptist Church in Dudley Shoals, Verlin’s faith in the Lord was the cornerstone of his life.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife Emma Mae St. Clair Willis; his brother, Alvin Willis; and his sisters, Irene Buckner and Barbara Holder.

Those left to cherish his memory include his children, David Willis and wife Jan of FL, Randy Willis and wife Jerri of Hickory, and Lori Ikard of Hickory; his grandchildren, Christian Browning, Erin Browning, Megan Grindstaff and husband Ryan, Amber Pardue and husband Josh, Jimmie Watley and wife Jennifer, and Jennifer Haffner and husband Rich; his great-grandchildren, Hailey, Kaleb, Graysen, Kyler, Jordan, Oakley, Montana, Ivy, Calais, Teagan and Kaitlyn; his great-great grandchild, Alice; his sister, Janet Anderson; his brother-in-law, Don Norman; also surviving are many beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Freedom Independent Baptist Church in Granite Falls, with Rev. Jobie Borders officiating. Interment will follow in the Freedom Independent Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, from 10:00-11:00 A.M. at Freedom Independent Baptist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658 or Freedom Independent Baptist Church, 2224 Satterwhite Circle, Granite Falls, NC 28630.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.mackiefh.com.

Mackie Funeral Service & Cremations in Granite Falls is serving the Willis family.