Coach Fred Wills

Coach Freddy Joe Willis

Coach Freddy Joe Willis was born September 3, 1945 in Oklahoma City to the late Mr. Joseph William and Mrs. Minnie Ruth (Glascow) Willis. He departed this life Monday March 9, 2009 at Lewisville, TX after an extended illness at the age of 63 years, 6 months and 6 days.

Coach Willis was raised in Ringling, graduating from Ringling High School in 1963. He then attended Cameron University in Lawton, receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Education. He married the former Ms. Janice Rose May 4, 1967 in Ardmore. Coach Willis later received his Masters Degree from East Central University and also attended some administrative courses at TWU.

His first coaching job was at Paola. He was a founder with Rick Clark in establishing the “Bigger, Faster, and Stronger” weightlifting program in Oklahoma. He was named the Oklahoma Football Coach of the Year in 1979, District 6 Coach of the Year, and also region 6 Athletic Director of the year.

Coach Willis moved to Texas in 1987, coaching football at Lewisville High School for 6 years. He then became the Golf Coach and soon for the first time ever at LHS, took the Girls and Boys Teams to State. Coach Willis will be remembered for his dedication to his kids, building lasting teams and inspiring everyone to give it their all.

Preceding him in death is his Parents, and Son, Joseph McLain “Joe Mac” Willis, September 22, 1999.

Survivors include his wife, Janice of Corinth, TX, Daughter, Natalie Jane Willis of Ringling, Sister Patsy Salter and husband Jim of Davis. 4 Grandchildren, Zane Montana Willis, Destinie Paige Willis, Braidon McLain Willis and Zeb Phoenix Willis. Nephews, Kevin, Kyle and Kris Salter. Aunt, Mary Nell Willis of Ringling and numerous other family and friends.