Carl N. Willis, 61, peacefully transitioned to be with his loved ones on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.

Carl was born on November 28, 1963, in Columbus, Georgia, to the late Depolier and Bessie Lee Willis. Carl was raised in Columbus and attended the Muscogee County School District. He was a proud graduate of Carver High School in 1982, where he played on the basketball team.

He confessed Christ at an early age and attended services with his mother at the Box Springs Church of Christ.

In 1984, Carl was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, the late Colette R. Willis. From this union, one daughter, Chenay Williams, was born.

Professionally, Carl was a talented chef in the restaurant industry. He was a dedicated laborer at Graphic Packaging for over 20 years, remaining an employee there until recently.

In 2006, Carl met the love of his life, his fiancé, Michelle Lawshe, at a mutual friend’s party. Their relationship flourished, blending their families and creating lifetime bonds.

Carl had a dynamic and engaging personality. He was beloved by all who knew him and will be greatly missed. He had a passion for style, loving to dress well and collect tennis shoes. He also enjoyed playing the lottery and watching sports.

Carl found great joy in grilling outside for his family and friends while entertaining. He also cherished his phone calls with his Georgia family. A true friend, if you were close to Carl, he gave you a special nickname.

He had a lifelong love for cars. If anyone close to him bought a car, they would bring it to him for inspection and approval. Each car in his personal collection was kept pristine inside and out.

During his last days, Donald Quarles, Jr. was a steady force of intentional friendship, support and positivity. His dear friends Duane Sanders, Tiffany Stevens, and Kaihelae Adams and Natasha Parmerb stayed by his side during his transition, ensuring Carl was never alone.

Carl was preceded in death by his siblings Catherine Murray and Carson Willis.

He leaves behind his loving daughter Chenay (Lakisha); his devoted fiancé Michelle Lawshe; his sister Anita Jones; his bonus children LaToya Kent, Deonte’ Lawshe (Anna), Kenneth Gray (NaTosha), and Kellin Gray.

He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Uri Iru, Jaiden R. Williams, Kenley Gray, Nile Gray, Nalani Gray, and Samai Lawshe; and his nephews Bernard Murray and Carlson Shannon, niece Catherine Shannon and a host of friends and family.