Obituary of Willis James Hess

Mr. Willis James Hess, age 76, of Vilas, passed away Sunday, January 16, 2022 at Holston Valley Medical Center. Born August 5, 1945 in Russell County, Virginia, he was a son of the late Willard Isaac and Elsie Howington Hess. Willis enjoyed helping others, and could often be seen out walking his dog. He is survived by three sisters, Shelba Hicks of Mountain City, TN, Ellen Dancy and husband Jack of Vilas, and Mary Thompson of Avondale, PA, and one brother, Millard Hess of Laurel Bloomery, TN a special niece, Wilma Hicks and friend Jack Herten, and a special neighbor, Caroline Shockley. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two sisters, Frances Wilcox and Willa Jean, the three brothers, Wesley, John and Donald Hess. Funeral services for Mr. Willis Hess will be conducted Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 2 PM at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Officiating will be Rev. Bill McGuire. The family will greet visitors following the service. Online condolences may be shared with the Hess family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Hess family.