Harold Joseph Willis—better known to family and friends as Jimmy—passed away on May 24, 2026, in Pasco, Washington, surrounded by the love of his family. In true Jimmy fashion, he held on just long enough to make sure everyone else was going to be alright.

Jimmy was born on November 9, 1951, in Easton, Maryland, to William Joseph Willis and Norma Lee Willis (Layton). After losing his father at a young age, his mother later married Albert Russell White, who raised him in Federalsburg, Maryland. Jimmy grew up alongside his siblings, Lillie Mae Willis, Sherian Willis, William Ronald Willis, and Sue. He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, siblings, sister-in-law Sandy Willis, Niece Sheila Willis, Elaine Bravenec (mother of his children), his son Harold Joseph “Joe” Bravenec, and many aunts, uncles, and lifelong friends. He is survived by his sister Sue Stafford, who remained close to his heart.

Jimmy married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Bravenec, and together they had three children—Sherry, Shelly, and Joe. Though their paths eventually went separate ways, that chapter of his life remained an important part of his story.

A little later in life, Jimmy met and married the love of his life, Holly Christine Willis—better known as Chris. Together, they built a life full of hard work, laughter, animals, and unforgettable memories, and they celebrated 50 years of marriage in February 2026.

Jimmy leaves behind his loving wife, Chris, his daughters, Shelly Flores (Javier Flores) and Sherry Bravenec. He was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren, Enrique Flores, Jasmine Herrera, and Juan Herrera.  Kylee Pease, Emily Sanborn, Ashley Bravenec, Morgan Bravenec, Hunter Bravenec, Joey Bravenec, Olivia Bravenec, Zack Lawrence, Trevor Bravenec, Jodi Gentile, and Abby Bravenec, along with many great-grandchildren. His nieces and nephews held a special place in his heart, and many of his fondest memories were made with them.

Jimmy was a hardworking man who wore many hats throughout his life. From working at a bakery and doing union construction in Ocean City, to becoming a certified welder and bricklayer, he was never afraid of tough work. He also worked at Solo Cup, where he met Chris, spent time on a hog farm—where the stories alone could bring a room to tears with laughter—operated heavy equipment, and later worked in metal recycling, stripping copper (legally, as he’d proudly remind you).

In his younger days, Jimmy was the definition of a redneck country boy—he loved to drink, party, hunt, and yes, occasionally fight. (Lol. We all know it was more than occasionally) The stories he and his cousin George “Allen” Layton could tell (and loved to tell) about those times were legendary. Whether hunting coons, squirrels, rabbits, or deer, or riding motorcycles after trading in his childhood love of horses, Jimmy lived life on his own terms.

When he and Chris bought their farm, it became a place full of life—horses, chickens, turkeys, rabbits, and even two geese named Mikey and Lucy. He took great pride in teaching Chris the ins and outs of country living, including processing deer—something he especially enjoyed doing with Brother Ronnie Sr., his nephew, Little Ronnie, niece Sheila, and a few friends, often with a cooler of beer nearby and plenty of laughter.

About 15 years ago, Jimmy began battling an illness that changed his life in many ways. While it slowed him down physically, it softened him in the best ways. He became more open, gentler, and—though still a smart aleck—perhaps a little easier to be around. But one thing never changed: his love for his family and friends

In November 2025, Jimmy and Chris moved to Washington State to live with his daughter, Shelly, where he was surrounded by family during his final chapter. Even in his last days, Jimmy was focused on making sure Chris would be taken care of and that everyone he loved was alright.

Jimmy wasn’t always the easiest man to know—but he was one of the most loyal. If you needed him, he was there. And even if you didn’t, there’s a good chance he showed up anyway. He loved hard, spoke his mind, worked tirelessly, and left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He had a one-of-a-kind laugh, a sharp wit, and a presence you couldn’t ignore. His stories- whether funny, wild, or downright unbelievable- will live on in the hearts of everyone who heard them.

As his family packed up to move West, they were reminded just how many people loved Jimmy—friends and family alike, many cut from the same cloth: a little rough around the edges, big-hearted, loyal, and full of life. The kind of people who don’t always say it softly—but mean it deeply.

Jimmy will be missed more than words can say, remembered with laughter as much as tears, and never, ever forgotten.

Rest easy, Jimmy. You lived life your way—and we wouldn’t have had you any other way. He has gone hunting with the master.