James Ryan Willis

December 20, 1978 - March 11, 2020

James Ryan Willis, 41 of Knoxville, formally of Morristown, passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at his residence. He was preceded in death by his grandfather: Benjamin "Ben" Willis; step grandparents: Larry Barlowe and Marilyn Potter; aunt: Donna Potter and uncle: Matthew Potter. Ryan loved being outdoors; camping, watersports and especially playing basketball, a real thrillseeker. He had just been recognized at Kings Academy for being the only student who played every sport offered in one school year. He was a wonderful, positive friend to everyone who knew him and would give his last dollar to someone in need. Ryan had the ability to light up a room with his smile and charm. His love of God led him to spread God's word. Ryan leaves his mother: Celia Potter-Clark (Joey Wilder); father: James "Jimmy" Willis; step-father: Dr. Peter Clark (Becky).  Daughters: Addison Willis and Alyssa Willis. Mothers of his daughters: Holly Fields Willis and Maria McKinney Laws. Brother: Hunter Clark. Sisters: Kaley Moore (Leslie), Abby Smith (Adam) and Meredith Willis (April Williams).  A nephew, several nieces, great aunts and uncles,  and cousins. Grandparents: Margie Barlowe, Benjamin "Benny" Potter and Ruth Willis. Uncles: Blain Potter (Lindy) and Paul Lauritzen. Aunts: Brenda McGee (Doug), Diane Rhinehart (Danny) and Joyce (Jerry) Carswell. Special friends, mentors and second family: Kenny Smith (Susan), their daughters: Dr. Rachel Smith and Amy Kennedy (Adam) and a special aunt: Kathy Rogers (Rick). Visitation will be Sunday, March 15, 2020 at Alder Funeral Home from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM. Funeral services to follow with Kenny Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Ryan may be directed to Helen Ross McNabb Center, 201 W Springdale Ave. Knoxville, TN 37917.