Retired US Air Force Chief Master Sergeant David Wayne Willis, age 60, of Swansea, Ill., born November 14, 1953 in St. Louis, Mo., died Wednesday, January 22, 2014 in his home.

The oldest of six children, Dave grew up in St. Francois County, Mo. As a young man, he enlisted in the Air Force, and had a successful 30-year military career. Beginning in security services as a Morse systems craftsman, he transitioned into contracting, and retired in 2002 from Scott AFB, Ill. Among his many awards and decorations are the Meritorious Service Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters, and AF Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster. Throughout his military career, he and his family enjoyed being part of the Air Force family, especially while at Altus AFB, Okla., and the Azores, where many strong friendships were formed.

A natural leader with a strong work ethic, Dave earned his degree from Troy University, Ala. He was a genuinely caring and helpful man, strongly devoted to his family. He had an ear for good, meaningful music; was a life-long fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, especially Bob Gibson and Lou Brock; and was a good role model for his son.

Dave was passionate about sharing his faith in Jesus Christ; he was a faithful and vital member of Redeemer Community Church, O'Fallon, where he was part of a discipleship group. He had a strong moral fiber and stood firm in what he believed to be right.

He was preceded in death by his parents Barney H. and Dalia Deane, nee Armsbury, Willis; and his sister Patty Willis.

He is survived by his wife, Linda, nee House, Willis, whom he married December 27, 1972 in Bonne Terre, Mo.; son Pastor Shawn (Melissa) Willis, of Ackley, Iowa; sisters Ruth Ann Willis, Mary Ann Willis, Jeanna Voth, and brother Barney Lee Willis.

Memorial donations may be made to Redeemer Community Church, O'Fallon, Ill.

Visitation: The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, January 26, 2014 at Redeemer Community Church, 1105 Eastgate Dr., O'Fallon, Ill.

Visitation will continue at 10:00 a.m., Monday, January 27, 2014 at First Baptist Church O'Fallon, 1111 East Highway 50, O'Fallon.

Funeral: A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 27, 2014, at First Baptist Church O'Fallon, 1111 East Highway 50, O'Fallon, with Pastor Rusty Mosley officiating. Burial with military honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, Mo.