John "Jack" Willis

John J. “Jack” Willis, 83, of Manchester, beloved husband of the late Carol (Lallier) Willis, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, June 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with pulmonary hypertension.
Born on March 27, 1942, in Manchester, Jack was the son of the late Dominica (Sartor) Willis and Donald E. Willis. A lifelong resident of Manchester, he attended Manchester Public Schools and was a proud member of the 8th District Fire Department.
Jack worked alongside his father at Don Willis Garage, located at 18 Main Street in Manchester, as a skilled and respected mechanic. He later became self-employed, continuing his work with accounts such as the 8th District Fire Department and Fuss & O’Neill. He was well-known for his exceptional mechanical abilities and deep passion for antique cars. He lovingly restored several award-winning antique vehicles, especially for the late Sonny Damato.
In his earlier years, Jack enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his greatest joy came later in life through his boat, the Nasty Habit. He spent countless weekends on the water, fishing at the Race, Watch Hill reefs, Block Island, Montauk, and beyond — often with his grandsons by his side. He found peace in the simple pleasure of being on the water and cherished every moment.
Jack was happiest in his garage, where he was always tinkering, fixing, and building — the epitome of a “Jack of all trades.” He loved driving and never missed a chance for a scenic ride, especially Sunday drives with Carol and his family.
To those who knew him, Jack will be remembered not only for his incredible talents and unwavering work ethic, but also for his wit, infectious smile and laugh, and his signature sayings: “No problem,” “Say goodbye,” and “You think it’s easy?”
Jack’s legacy of love, laughter, and craftsmanship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He will be greatly missed by his daughter, Deborah Willis, and her boyfriend, Steven Heal, of Lebanon; his son, Donald Willis, and his wife, Kimberley, of Willington; his three grandsons, Jeremy Blair, Joseph Blair, and Zachary Willis; and his great-grandson, Elijah Blair. He is also survived by his sister, Gail Zanlungo of Florida, and his last surviving uncle, Fred Sartor of Manchester.
Jack leaves behind two sisters-in-law, Shirley Schwarm and her husband, Donald, of Vernon, and Laura McGoldrick and her boyfriend, Robert, of Coventry; as well as two brothers-in-law, Edward Costa of Rhode Island and Joseph Lallier of Florida. He also leaves many wonderful nieces, a nephew, cousins, and close friends who brought joy and support throughout his life.
A special thank you to Lisa Fournier, his caregiver and “mon ami,” who readily stepped in when his daughter couldn’t be there. The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Trinity Health and his amazing hospice nurse, Kristie, who was with him right up until the end. We couldn’t have gotten through this without her compassion, care, patience, and humor.
Jack was predeceased by his brother, Robert Willis; sisters-in-law, Diane Willis and Nancy Costa; and brothers-in-law, Charles Zanlungo, William Lallier, Dennis Demo, and Jerry McGoldrick.
Calling Hours will be held Monday, June 30th, from 5pm till 7pm at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main St., Manchester, CT. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, July 1st, at 10am at Holmes-Watkins Funeral Home with burial will follow at Neipsic Cemetery, Glastonbury.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of his beloved wife, Carol Willis.