David A. Willie, 62, of Benton, KY passed away on June 3, 2020 at Vanderbilt Hospital in Nashville, TN.
David was born in Benton, KY, on October 18, 1957, to the late Freddie Willie and Atta Belle Coursey Willie. Even early in his life, he had a love for music and loved to play the drums. His love for music led him to join a rock band with his brother that was called Ironcore Resistance. Many years later his son resurrected the band and Ironcore Resistance is still continuing on today. At the age of 24, he decided that he wanted to serve his country. So David enlisted in the United States Army, and dedicated almost 13 years of his life to serving our country, and during that time became a Staff Sergeant for the Military Police. David was stationed all around the globe in places like Alaska, Belgium, Korea, and multiple states across the U.S. During his years with the United States Army, he received many awards and medals for his service. David received a Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal 1st OLC, Army Achievement Medal 2nd OLC, Expert Marksmanship Badge, along with a multitude of other medals and honors. He had an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science, and also attended the Billy Graham Training Center at the Cove, where he became an Ordained Minister. He went on to write a book of Christian poems which he later had published. David had many hobbies throughout life that he enjoyed doing in his spare time some of which included, riding jet skis, playing baseball, fishing, and especially just getting out and riding his Harley. He was a member of the VFW Post #1084 and a highly regarded member of the Elks Lodge #2707 in Benton, KY. In his most recent years, David had the honor to serve as an auxiliary member and a former Captain for the Marshall County Rescue Squad. He began volunteering for the squad after retirement and continued to do so until his health no longer allowed him to participate. This is the same organization that both of his parents were instrumental in creating and getting started back in the 1950’s. In fact, the name of the vessel that he was the Captain of was named after his mother, Atta Belle. Even though he enjoyed so many hobbies and was a member of multiple organizations, there were only a couple things he loved above all else, his kids and his family. He could always be seen smiling and will always be remembered for his amazing sense of humor, and his great attitude.
He is survived by his significant other, Nancy Copeland; one son, David Joseph Willie of Benton, KY; two daughters, Katie Willie Morris of Benton, KY and Carrie Ann Willie Correa and husband Luis “Taco” of Ashville, NC; one brother, Mike Willie of Bartlett, TN; and two grandchildren, Gretchyn Morris and Gage Morris.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Leta Gail Hafer; one brother Joe Paul Willie; and his parents.
Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at Filbeck-Cann Funeral Home with Tobby Haines Officiating and burial will follow at Marshall County Memory Gardens.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2020 at Filbeck-Cann Funeral Home.
After all the services for David have concluded the Marshall County Elks Lodge has prepared a meal. The family would like to invite anyone who wishes to attend to come join them for this meal.
In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Marshall County Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 118, Benton, KY 42025 or to A Soldier’s Heart: Bluegrass and Muddy Muddy Waters Veteran’s Program, 1833 Tatumsville HWY, Gilbertsville, KY 42044.
We appreciate your help in maintaining state mandated Covid restrictions. This includes the minimum of 6 feet of social distancing within our facility.
During this difficult time, you may show your support by joining the “Hugs from Home” program where your message will be attached to a balloon in the chapel to remind the family of your love and support. Please go to www.filbeckandcann.com to send a hug, leave a message or light a candle in his memory.