Mary Hensley Willis, 71, a former oil and gas draftsperson, passed away on Sunday, September 18, 2022, at her home in Shreveport due to heart failure. Mary was born on July 31, 1951, in Memphis, TN, to Melvin C. Hensley and Elizabeth Ellen McMann. She lived most of her life in Jackson, MS and in Shreveport, LA. After graduating from high school, Mary earned her Associate Degree from Hinds Junior College.
Mary was a longtime adult Boy Scout leader and a vigil member of its honor society, Order of the Arrow. In addition, she served as a wood badge instructor and Norwela Council Unit Commissioner. She was also a dedicated volunteer for the American Red Cross. Mary has served thousands of hot meals to disaster victims during times of flooding, tornadoes, and wildfire events, and she recorded and processed numerous cases for financial assistance to support those in need. In 2014-5, her efforts earned her a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Obama, a Volunteer Service Award, and a Certificate of National Community Service Award from AmeriCorps. Mary practiced her faith at St. Pauls Episcopal Church. Its certainly true that "Cant never did anything!"
Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Matthew Alan Willis.
She is survived by her husband, Gregory Alan Willis; her sister, Marilyn Sue (Charlie) Smith; and numerous cousins.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 28, from 6:30 8:00 PM at Forest Park Funeral Home, 1201 Louisiana Ave. Shreveport, LA. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 8:00 PM officiated by Father Guido Verbeck.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Judes Childrens Hospital in Memphis.Services
Wednesday September 28, 2022
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Forest Park Funeral Home
1201 Louisiana Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101
Wednesday September 28, 2022
8:00 PM
Forest Park Funeral Home
1201 Louisiana Ave. Shreveport, LA 71101