A celebration of life for longtime civic leader and artist Galen “Gary” Nesbit Willis Jr., who passed away on June 3, 2025, will be held Sunday, Sept. 14 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Normandy Park Community Club (The Cove).
Willis, a decorated Air Force veteran who served as a postal inspector and later worked for the U.S. Department of Justice, was deeply involved in the Burien community.
He served as a fire commissioner for the Burien-Normandy Park Fire Department from 2003–2007, taught genealogy at the Burien Community Center, and volunteered with Paralyzed Veterans of America.
An accomplished woodcarver, Willis created Northwest Native American–style carvings, many of which he donated to charity auctions, including a carved eagle installed at Seahurst’s Eagle Landing Park in a shelter built by an Eagle Scout.
Friends and family say Willis was admired for his integrity, artistry, and generosity.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy; son Lehrer; daughter-in-law Bridgette; grandchildren Yuki, Takeo and Kaz; sister Linda Dagg; and nephews Eric (Brandi) and Mark Dagg. He was preceded in death by his nephew Noel Webster.
