Willis Elbert Kneeland

Memories of Dad

We do not need a special day to bring you to our minds. The days we do not think of you are very hard to find. Each morning when we awake we know that you are gone. And no one knows the heartache as we try to carry on. Our hearts still ache with sadness and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you no one will ever know. Our thoughts are always with you, your place no one can filli In life we loved you dearly; in death we love you still There will always to be a heartache, and often a silent tear. But always a precious memory of the days when you were here If tears would make a staircase, and heartaches make a lane. We’d walk the path to heaven and bring you home again. We hold you close within our hearts; and there you will remain, To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Our family chain is broken now, and nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

Love, Anthony & Nikki

Loving

Tributes

“God looked around his garden and found an empty place

He then looked down upon the Earth and saw your tired face He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest With the help of his angels they flew you to your heavenly place. We will miss you love, Alma and Sophia

~ Acknowledgements ~

We are most grateful for everyone who has been so kind and thoughtful during these hours of sorrow. Your prayers, visits, calls, flowers and every act of kindness have given us strength and inspiration for the facing of this hour.

To the staff at Methodist Germantown Hospital, Regional One Extended Care Hospial, Spring Gate Rehabilitation and Health Care Center and VA Hospital, we thank you for your time and service to our loved one. May God Bless each of you.

Life’s Reflections

Willis Elbert Kneeland, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother, and dear friend, was born on July 17, 1956, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late William O. and Estella Kneeland. He peacefully passed away on Sunday August 6, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion.

Willis’s faith journey began at an early age when he accepted Christ at New Jerusalem Church in Memphis. This foundation of faith guided him throughout his life, shaping his values and impacting those around him. Educated and driven, Willis proudly graduated from Overton High School in 1975, where he formed lifelong friendships and discovered his passion for learning. Following his graduation, he felt a calling to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army on September 1, 1977. During his time in the military, Willis excelled as a Sharpshooter and a Grenade Expert, showcasing his skills and dedication to his fellow soldiers. He completed his service at the Quartermaster School in Fort Lee, Virginia, on November 20, 1975.

Upon returning to civilian life, Willis embarked on a career with the United States Post Office, where he worked as a dedicated Mailhandler for over 30 years. His commitment and reliability were evident to all who interacted with him, and he retired as a respected and valued member of the postal service. Additionally, Willis served as a Security Officer at Memphis International Airport, ensuring the safety and well-being of countless travelers.

Willis was a man of deep love and devotion to his family. He was preceded in death by his father, Mr. William O. Kneeland, his mother, Estella Kneeland, his brothers, William Kneeland, Jr., and Maurice Kneeland, and his beloved grandparents, Isiah and Carena McKay. Though their absence is deeply felt, their memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved them. Leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories, Willis is survived by his beloved wife, Takesha Kneeland, whose unwavering support and love brought him great joy and happiness. He will forever be remembered as a loving and dedicated father by his son, Willis A. Kneeland, and his daughter-in-law, Adrian Kneeland. His daughter, Nicole Bowen, and sonin-law, Kenjii, will forever cherish the love and guidance he provided. Willis’s siblings, Alma Stinson and Sophia Kneeland, were not only his family but also his closest friends, sharing a bond that will endure the test of time. His grandchildren, Chandler Miller, Adrianna Kneeland, Willow Kneeland, and Wynter Kneeland, brought immense joy and laughter to his life, leaving behind cherished memories that will be treasured forever. Willis Elbert Kneeland will be remembered as a kind, creative, and intelligent soul who always extended a helping hand to those in need. His friendly and warm demeanor touched the lives of many, and his memory will forever remain in our hearts.

Order of Celebration

Processional

Recessional

Musical Selection