Russell E. Willis

YONKERS- Russell E. Willis, 64, died on May 26, 2026 at St. John's Hospital in Yonkers.

Born on September 18, 1961 in the Bronx, Russell was the son of the late Walter and Anne (Wright) Willis. Russell was employed as a sous chef at the Hilton Hotel in midtown Manhattan, and thoroughly enjoyed cooking. Both Oprah Winfrey and Bill Clinton frequented the restaurant he worked at because of their love of his cooking! He was also the CFO of Whorlklass Fisheries Kenya Exporters LTD in Homa Bay, Kenya.

He will be remembered for his amazing sense of humor, always having a joke ready to share.

He is survived by his significant other, Jackie Haynes; his children, Jerod Willis and Joanna Willis; his sister, Cassandra L. Willis Bowman and her husband Bernard B.H. Bowman; his brother, Marshall Willis; his nephews, Terrence E. Bowman and John B. Bowman; and his former wife, Sherri Willis.

In addition to his parents, Russell was also predeceased by his son, Vincent Willis.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 5th at 11 am at Freedom Plains Cemetery, 25 Jon J. Wagner Way, LaGrangeville.

Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home. Please visit Russell's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.

Psalm 23 (NKJV)

The Lord is my shepherd;I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever.