- Date Of Death: October 8, 2021
- State: Connecticut
Thomas Alexander Willis, Jr, 79, died October 8, 2021 at home with his family. He was a former resident of North Augusta, SC and Augusta, GA for 50 years. He was a beloved husband, father and Grandfather (PopPop). He will be remembered for his hilarious dry wit, sense of humor and his devotion to his family and friends.
He was a 1960 graduate of Sylvan Hills High School in Atlanta, GA; and a 1964 Civil Engineering graduate of Georgia Tech Institute of Technology. After being commissioned as a Lt. JG in the U.S. Navy he served on the USS Keppler. He was a 1969 recipient of a Master’s Degree in Nuclear Engineering from Georgia Tech and was employed by the Savannah River Site in Aiken, SC, From January, 1970 until his retirement in July, 2000. He was instrumental in several innovative programs during his tenure.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas A. Willis and Frances P. Willis of Atlanta, GA. Also his sister, Ellen Rebecca Pence. He is survived by his wife, Claire Chreitzberg Willis, his son, Thomas Alexander Willis, III, Daughter-in-law, Melissa Ann Willis, and grandchildren Nyla Adrie, twins, Clayton Alexander and Natalie Jane and Briana Noelle. A Brother-in-Law, Benjamin Kilgore Chreitzberg, Sister-in-law, Betty; niece Lisa Chreitzberg Bryant; a Brother-in-law, Kirk Pence, wife Diane and niece, Jessica Pence Pruitt.
A special thanks to the nurses and Doctors with Nuclear Care Partners and Vitas Hospice who cared for him during his illness.
