Keitha L Willis

Beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister & niece

Keitha Llewellyn Willis

Mrs. Keitha Llewellyn Willis, beloved daughter of Henry “Tim” Ford Jr. and Robbie Sue Ford, was born on October 4, 1969, in Sulphur Springs, Texas. From an early age, Keitha demonstrated a strong commitment to learning. She was educated in the Dallas Independent School District and later attended Jarvis Christian University, where she graduated cum laude in 1992 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. During her time at Jarvis, she spent a formative semester studying abroad in England, returning with cherished stories and experiences that remained dear to her throughout her life.

Keitha’s roots in Sulphur Springs ran deep. She was the proud granddaughter of Reverend Ralph L. and Lureen Williams, as well as Pearl Johnson. Through marriage, she also became the cherished daughter-in-love of Evangelist Beverly Willis and granddaughter-in-love of Mother Ophelia Evans.

Keitha shared a beautiful and enduring love story with her husband, Eric Willis. They knew of each other at a young age in Sulphur Springs and via Mitchell Chapel. But they officially met at Jarvis Christian University, where they were both students. Their college friendship was deep and brought them very close as friends only. After graduation, something changed and they fell in love. Together, in 32 years of marriage, they built a life and home filled with love, faith and laughter. She was adored by her husband and also their daughter, Erica. As a mother, Keitha adored her daughter as well, and took great joy in guiding her with wisdom, kindness, and endless support. Keitha and Erica,loved to share in what they called GNO’s or girls’ night out. Throughout Erica’s education, Keitha wore many hats as a band mom, basketball mom, dance mom, and worship team mom.

Keitha received Christ at an early age and walked steadfastly in her Christian faith, finding strength and purpose in her relationship with God. She was a woman of deep conviction, guided by love, grace, and unwavering trust in His plan. Her kindness and generosity reflected the teachings of Christ, as she lived each day with compassion, humility, and service to others. Whether through her prayers, words of encouragement, or acts of charity, she touched countless lives, embodying the spirit of faith and hope. Her legacy of devotion will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her light will shine eternally in the hearts of her loved ones.

Keitha was accepted into the INROADS Organization, during her senior year in high school. That partnership led to her internship positions at 3M and Occidental Chemical Corporations. After college, Keitha was hired by Occidental Chemical Corporation and dedicated 33 years of her life to the company. Throughout her career, she held several pivotal roles, including Customer Relations, Pricing, and International Sales Specialist. Her expertise and dedication significantly contributed to OxyChem’ssuccess and growth. Colleagues remember her not only for her professional achievements but also for her warm, supportive nature and her ability to inspire those around her. Keitha loved her time at OxyChem and also built many relationships that she treasured. She valued the many things she learned and experienced in her 33 years with the company.

A gifted storyteller, Keitha also fulfilled a lifelong dream of becoming a published author. Her book, Tears in a Bottle, was a labor of love and a reflection of her depth and resilience. She poured her heart into its pages—often sharing chapters with Eric—and proudly promoted it during book tours. She had also begun work on her second novel, Come to Me.

Cancer has touched so many of our families, and Keitha faced her battle with unwavering strength. Just 18 days after learning of her illness, God, in His infinite wisdom, called her home. Though she fought with everything in her, the Lord knew what was best, granting her a final moment of peace. Surrounded by love, she opened her eyes to see her devoted husband and cherished daughter by her bedside before gently surrendering to His embrace. She has now found perfect rest in His eternal presence.

As we say goodbye (for now) to Keitha, we take comfort in the promise of eternal life through Christ. She walked in faith, sharing the love of Jesus with all who knew her, and her legacy is a reflection of God’s grace and goodness. Though she is no longer with us on this earth, we rejoice in the assurance that she is in the presence of her Savior, surrounded by His eternal love. May we honor Keitha by living out the truths she cherished, leaning on God’s strength, and sharing His light with the world, knowing that one day, we will be reunited in His glorious kingdom.

Keitha leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Eric Willis, daughter, Erica Willis, mother, Robbie Sue Ford. Sisters, Kailyn Ford, Khundra LaJoy Dabbs, and ShannonHughes. Brothers, Jaime Ford Sr., LaMont Ford, andJonathan Ford. God Father, Ray Dabbs, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws, four nephews, one niece and one great-niece and one great-nephew.

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