Vivian Willis

Vivian Edwards Willis was born in Opp, Al on September 29, 1972, to Mittie J. Edwards and James Stoudemire Jr. She attended Opp high school and graduated in 1990. Vivian’s passion for people, especially children, led her to pursue her bachelor’s degree in education. 

Her educational journey included Lurleen B. Wallace Junior College, Columbus State University, and Troy State University from which she graduated with a master’s degree in education with a focus on special education. Vivian was set to graduate with her doctorate degree in May of 2024. 

Vivian impacted lives through her work in education for 20+ years. She served as an educator at Opp Middle School, Daleville High School, Red Level Elementary, Elba, and Andalusia High School. During her career, Vivian’s flair and light changed lives in every hallway, gym, and classroom she entered. Her faith walk began at an early age at Bethlehem Baptist Church. As an adult, Vivian worshipped at Star of Hope Missionary Baptist Church and Oak Grove Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Julian Mitchel. Vivian shared her life in matrimony with Robert Willis whom she married in February 2005.

She is preceded in death by Mittie J. Edwards (mom), James Stoudemire Jr (father), Mittie B. and Bishop Edwards (grandparents) Derriunna Gantt (daughter) Brenleigh Gantt (granddaughter) and a host of aunts and uncles. Left to celebrate her memory are her children Alikeyuntai Pate (Kendron), Samantha Dawson, Robert Willis II, La’Robert Willis, Robert Willis III and Caleb “Buga Wuga” Simmonds. Her siblings Tony Edwards, Donnie Daniels (Tim), Willie Edwards (Shakeitha), Lavavis Edwards, Jennifer Lindsay and Vicky Davis. Uncles include James (Pat) Johnny C (Grace), Willie Joe, Joseph and Carlton Edwards, James, Ray, and Jason Stoudemire.

Aunts; Peggy Edwards, Susan Marshall, Julia Crittenden (Gary), Mary Hooks, Mary Tolbert, and Loretta Hines. Her grandkids Asa J. Pate, Kenji D. Pate, Sayvion Willis, and Josiah Willis. Special Nieces Praise and Victory. Special Cousins Ashlee, Kiki, and Tanisha “Sally”. Godchildren Lukas Edwards and Zaiden Davis. Best friends Tonya Williams and Carla Smith along with special friends Katie Wyatt, Gilann Jones, and Kevin Madden all cherish her memory. A plethora of nieces and nephew also remain to celebrate her life and love.

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