I was saddened to hear of Freddie’s passing. It took me back many years when the majority of us young people of the church were a part of the renowned ET Chorale under the leadership of Fred Willis Sr. We had such fun traveling and singing in various communities throughout New York State.

Three of us were blessed to attend Oakwood College: Freddie, Joyce and me. It was a blessing being on campus with those from home. We were a family of friends.

Freddie came from a family of musicians, starting with his dad who was phenomenal in bringing out the best from those of us that sang in the chorale. Freddie was baritone, and could belt out a note. It was truly a ministry that all who heard were blessed.

Freddie will be truly missed and remembered. To his wife, children and siblings, I wish for you my deepest sympathy and condolences.

I pray that when we reunion on the streets of gold, that we will get together to sing once more in perfect harmony: “My new life I owe to thee, Jesus Lamb of Calvary.”

 Won’t that be a day of rejoicing!!

To the Willis family:
I've known Freddie all of my life. The Willis family and the
Graves family lived near each other at Willert Park in Buffalo.
We attended church services on the lower East Side, in Cold Springs, and on Peckham and Adams Streets. Freddie loved attending church services. He sang with his family in the church choir.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. May The Lord grant you comfort and peace.

Those of us who grew up in ET were blessed to be part of a unique community, the impact and memories of which we still cherish: the ET Chorale, the myriad lessons, laughter and the tears. Freddy Willis was a member of our community who always had a kind, sincere word for others. He inspired respect from those around him; gracious to young and old alike, Freddy often took the time to pull a smile from each encounter, no matter how brief. I am thankful to have known him. Along with my heartfelt condolences, I pray, for his family, that warm memories of Freddy will lessen the pain of his passing.
With Love and prayers,
Mary Harley Gresham

I have known Freddie for all of my life, we both lived in the same area, attended the same elementary school and Oakwood College. I had the honor of singing with him in the Emmanuel Temple Chorale, at the Emmanuel Temple SDA Church in Buffalo New York.
I loved to hear Freddie sing, his voice was comforting and distinctive. He always had a smile, a kind word, a loving heart, and was very smart.
Even though, over the years, we lived in different cities and time has passed, I still consider Freddie as family and will cherish knowing that we were also friends.
I pray for all of the Willis Family to have strength and comfort during this difficult time.
Until we all meet again,

Joyce A. Stewart
Buffalo, New York

Wow ... what devastating loss! Freddie and I grew up in Buffalo and began a long friendship while singing with the Emmanuel Temple Chorale which was directed by his father, Fred senior. I was a member of the Royal Templaires, and when the military called me away, highly talented Freddie replaced me. Freddie's voice was smooth as silk as all who heard him can attest to. I will miss you ... my brother!

With love and respect

Herbert A Stewart