Kathleen H. Willis

Kathleen H. Willis, 95, of Aiken, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Born in Aiken, SC she was a daughter of the late Clevland G. Horne and Rosa Bell Fulmer Horne. Kathleen was a devoted member of Redd’s Branch Baptist Church, where she served on several committees over the years. She was a godly woman who loved her Lord and lived her faith quietly and sincerely each day.

She enjoyed shopping, going out to eat, and spending time with her family. Kathleen never met a stranger, she welcomed everyone with a smile and a kind word. She was also an extraordinary cook, and her meals were a treasured part of every gathering. Kathleen loved her family deeply, and her warmth, generosity, and joyful spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.

Surviving are her children, Fabian E. Willis (Vickie), Ronnie L. Willis (Julie), Bargeron L. "Bargie" Willis (Roxanne), Theresa W. Young (Ricky) and Steven R. "Ricky" Willis. She is also survived by grandchildren; Melissa "Missy" Willis, Chris Willis (Casey), Kimberly Williford (Colby), Benjamin Willis, Tonya Whittle (Jamie), Blake Willis (Torie), Jeremy Jones (Shannon), Jason Jones (Taylor), Richie Young (Jamie), Melanie Hallback (Wesley), Steven Willis Jr. (Haley) and Luke Willis (Ashley); 22 great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, and extended family members. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Ernest H. Willis; daughter, Mary Willis; and siblings, Neomia Finley, Harvey Horne and Roberta Lybrand. 

The service to celebrate the life of Mrs. Willis will be held at 11 o'clock on Thursday, August 27th at Redd's Branch Baptist Church with Rev. Richard McWhite and Rev. Mark Watford officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5 until 7 o'clock Wednesday evening at Milton Shealy Funeral Home, Aiken Chapel.