Ed Willis, aka "Coach", a resident of Winfield, IL, passed away peacefully at the age of 75, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, July 27, 2023. Born on August 30, 1947, in Danville, VA, he was the son of James W. and Virginia (nee Sours) Willis.

Ed's journey through life was marked by his unwavering Christian faith, his dedication to education and athletics, his love of music, and his passion for working with young people. He grew up in Danville and graduated from George Washington High School in 1965, where he was actively involved with Youth For Christ, a testament to his early commitment to his Christian faith. Following his passion for ministry, he enrolled at Asbury College in Wilmore, KY, where he met the love of his life, Earlene Klemme, whom he married on June 1,1968.

Together, Ed and Earlene embarked on a journey as educators. They began their teaching careers in Laurel, IN, where Ed served as a head Basketball Coach. His love for mentoring young minds, coupled with his Christian faith led him to temporarily serve as a youth and music pastor at Providence Friends Church in Virginia. Ed possessed a deep passion for music and formed a gospel trio that ministered to his community, spreading the message of love and hope through song.

He returned to his career in teaching and coaching at Norfolk Christian High School, where he served as the Athletic Director for many years. His love for music also found expression as a choir director during this time. In 1994, his family moved to Illinois, where Ed became the Athletic Director at Wheaton Academy, while also teaching Psychology and coaching basketball. After this chapter, Ed's journey took him to The Master's Academy in Oviedo, Florida, where he used his expertise to further grow and develop their Athletic Program.

In 2007, Ed and Earlene returned to the Wheaton area to be close to their beloved grandchildren. Even during his retirement, Ed's love for sports endured, and he found great joy working at Prairie Landing Golf Course in West Chicago.

A man of faith, Ed was actively involved with Wheaton Bible Church, where he enjoyed the Men's ministry and served and taught in the Providence Class. Apart from his commitment to education and faith, he enjoyed following professional baseball, painting houses, fishing, playing golf with friends, breakfast dates, and spending quality time with his grandchildren.

Ed Willis leaves behind a legacy of devotion to his family, his students, and his faith. His impact on countless lives will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of his family, friends, and the communities he touched.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Earlene Willis, two children, Todd Willis and Shannon (Matt) McDonald, three grandchildren, Rilee, Brogan and Declan. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Willis and his sister, Joyce Setliff and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Chad, his parents and two sisters, Glenda Crowder and Margaret Carpenter.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 18, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at Wheaton Bible Church, 27W500 North Ave., West Chicago, IL 60185.  Friends may visit with the family following the service.

A livestream of the service will be available here: Celebration of the Life of Ed Willis

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to the Jesus Film Project.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com. For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.