About This Memory Space
This page was created for Brian Lee Willis's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Brian Lee Willis's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Brian Lee Willis. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
From his early days in Indiana, Brian exemplified a steady, faith-driven approach to life, trusting God for guidance one step at a time. He was known for his rapid forgiveness, aversion to causing pain, and remarkable ability to diffuse tension with humor and laughter. A true animal lover, he cared for a menagerie of creatures with Noah-like devotion. Brian poured his energy into community service, leading Bible studies, teaching Sunday School, assisting in children's church and preschool, and coaching youth basketball and soccer. His hobbies reflected his hands-on nature, including horseback riding, woodworking, landscaping, tractor operation, and home improvement projects. Athletically inclined and musically gifted, he excelled in high school sports and choirs, carrying that joyful spirit throughout his life.
Images
Family & Loved Ones
Brian Lee Willis's legacy lives on through their family and loved ones:
- Brian shared a loving marriage with Jennifer 'Jenny' (Marcum) Willis. He was a proud father to daughters Abigail 'Abby' Willis, Emily (Dmitry Olkhovskiy) Willis, and Chloe (Seth) Plantenga. Deeply connected to his parents, Donald Lee Willis and Joan (Mayenchein) Willis, as well as sister Jane Willis Gardner and brother Mark (Amy) Willis, he cherished extended family including uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, and nieces.
Remembered by Friends & Family
In the days and weeks after their passing, messages of love, support, and remembrance flowed in from friends, family, and colleagues. The themes that emerged were clear and consistent.
Friends and acquaintances expressed profound shock at Brian's passing, universally recalling his kindness, gentleness, and genuine nature. College and high school peers cherished fond memories of his friendship and warmth, while work colleagues highlighted enjoyable collaborations. Many from church small groups offered comfort through faith, emphasizing prayers for the family and gratitude for Brian's eternal reunion with his Savior.
Memorial Gathering: To be announced
Memorial Service: Visitation
Location: Flanner Buchanan Funeral Centers
8601 Hague Road, Indianapolis, IN, 46256
Additional Information: Please contact the funeral home for additional information.
For more details, visit the original obituary