Willis Ray Blaylock, 75, of Moundridge, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at Pine Village surrounded by family. He was born November 19, 1947 in McCurtain, Oklahoma, the son of Joe H. and Leanna M. (Porter) Blaylock.
He graduated from Abilene High School with the class of 1965. Willis later enlisted in the United States Navy where he served in the Vietnam War from 1967 until 1970, attaining the rank of Aviation Machinist’s Mate, 3rd class.
Willis was united in marriage to Donna Lee Koelling on November 28, 1966 in Abilene, Kansas. She survives of the home after almost 57 years of marriage.
He worked as a Plant Manager for the Bradbury Company for 25 years, retiring in 2013.
His most enjoyable time was spent with his grandkids and great-grandkids. Willis enjoyed fishing, hunting, racing, riding motorcycles and watching Nascar races. He also raised horses and boxer dogs.
He is survived by his wife, Donna Blaylock of Moundridge; son, Ron (Whitney) Blaylock of Moundridge; daughter, Nicole (Michael) Murphy of Wichita; eight grandchildren, Aaron (KaSarah) Blaylock, Steven (Olivia) Blaylock, Jordin (Matraca) Smith, Haley Smith (Derek Carlson), Devin (Makayla) Williams, Justin (Jasmine) Smith, Kyler Blaylock (Jacob Burkett), and Nate Martens; 13 great-grandchildren, plus one on the way; sister, Joann (Bob) Corder of Moundridge; and brothers, Dennis (Diane) Blaylock of Newton, Kenneth Blaylock of Yale, OK, and Tim (Melissa) Blaylock of Moundridge.
Willis was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Sandy Blaylock; and uncle, Jimmy Porter.
Family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023 at Moundridge Funeral Home. Cremation will follow with a private inurnment to take place later with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to Donna Blaylock in care of Moundridge Funeral Home, PO Box 410, Moundridge, KS 67107.