Alphia Jean Queen Willis, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on Wednesday, September 06, 2023, at the age of 79. Born on September 24, 1943, in Waynesville, North Carolina, Alphia lived a life filled with love, dedication, and compassion. She was a resident of Tabor Road in East Flat Rock, North Carolina.
Throughout her career, Alphia made a significant impact in the medical field. She dedicated over 30 years as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Pardee Hospital, where her caring nature and gentle touch brought comfort to countless patients. Additionally, she spent 17 years as a med tech for Spring Arbor Retirement Center, providing essential care and support to the elderly. Furthermore, Alphia’s nurturing spirit extended beyond the medical profession, as she directed and owned daycare centers, positively influencing the lives of many children and their families.
Alphia had a zest for life and cherished the simple pleasures it offered. Her favorite pastime was shopping at any and every thrift store she could find, always on the hunt for hidden treasures and unique items. Through her enthusiasm for thrift shopping, she taught her loved ones the value of finding beauty in the ordinary.
Family meant everything to Alphia. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her five children, Elisa Barnwell of Arden, North Carolina, Mark Willis of Waterloo, South Carolina, Kim Willis of East Flat Rock, North Carolina, Chris Willis and his wife, Lisa, of Lyman, South Carolina, and Dusty Willis of East Flat Rock, North Carolina. Alphia’s eighteen grandchildren and twenty-four great-grandchildren held a special place in her heart, bringing immeasurable joy and happiness into her life. She is also survived by her sister, Louise Brooks Snyder of Waynesville, North Carolina.
Alphia was preceded in death by her parents, James “Jim” and Carrie Conner Queen; and her loving and devoted husband of 62 years, Harold Willis, who passed away just 11 days before her. She was also preceded in death by eight brothers, Charlie Brooks, Arthur Brooks, Sam Brooks, James Queen, Jr., Carl Queen, Gerald Queen, Clyde Queen, and Melvin Queen. Additionally, Alphia mourned the loss of her grandson, Robbie Barnwell, and her granddaughter, Emily Willis.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Pastor Chris Norris will officiate the graveside service, where Alphia and Harold will be laid to rest together. Alphia’s sons and grandsons will serve as pallbearers, honoring their beloved matriarch.
Alphia Jean Queen Willis will be remembered as a woman who radiated love, compassion, and selflessness. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were her world, and her memory will forever live on in their hearts. As we bid farewell to Alphia, let us cherish the lessons she taught us about the importance of family, kindness, and finding beauty in the ordinary.
She was one of the best Great Aunts I had. I will truly miss you.
They were a beautiful and loveing couple will truly be missed. Keeping you all in out thoughts and prayers.
So sorry sweethar’s if I can do anything for any of youngs please let me know. They may be gone but not forgotten, There wings was ready but our hearts was not, love each and everyone of youngs.
She was such a wonderful woman. She will truly be missed. Will see her in Heaven one day.
So sorry to hear about Mama and Daddy passing away…
Had many treasure memories from y’all’s family over the years…
Working with your in the 80’s seems like yesterday and coming by talking to your Mama we all had a lot of good laughs…
Prayers for your family
Danny Williams
I love my aunt Alpha and uncle Herald to the moon and back , they where like our second set of parents. We all spent a lot of time together.They was a big part of all there siblings families,They will be missed by many of us . I will Cherish all the memories we had together, love you both bunches and will miss you both dearly. Tenia and Terry Wood.
To the Willis family…so sorry for your loss. Praying God will give you the comfort and peace you need now and in the days ahead. With sincere love and prayers.