Obituary: Willie Lou Hannis
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Willie Lou Hannis, a beloved member of the community. Willie Lou was born on September 26, 1934, in Hardeman County, Tennessee, and she peacefully departed from this world on January 1, 2024, at her home in Bolivar.
Willie Lou was a remarkable individual who dedicated her life to various endeavors. She had a fulfilling career as the owner and operator of Three-Way Grocery for an impressive 19 years. She also worked diligently for 15 years at Kilgore. Willie Lou’s strong work ethic and dedication were evident in everything she did.
Outside of her professional life, Willie Lou had a vibrant personality and a kind heart. She cherished her time spent working at her store, and considered her colleagues at Kilgore as family. A lover of good food and dining out, Willie Lou always appreciated the simple pleasures in life and enjoyed going to casinos and going out with friends and visiting.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Willie Lou held an important place in the Walnut Grove Baptist Church community. Her faith was an essential part of her life, providing guidance and solace throughout her journey. Services will be at Shackelford Funeral Home chapel in Bolivar on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 2 p.m. with burial in the Walnut Grove Cemetery.
Willie Lou is survived by her loved ones who will always hold her memory dear in their hearts. She was preceded in death by William Garrett, her first husband; Redus Hannis Jr., her second husband; as well as Willie Thomas Doles (father); Carlie Mathis Doles (mother); and children, Larry Garrett (son), Betty Jean Garrett (daughter), and William Garrett Jr., who tragically passed away as an infant son. She also mourned the loss of Wade Tigner, her cherished grandson. Additionally, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Rosa Lee Taylor and Betty Jeter; and two brothers, Bert and Thomas Doles.
Left to cherish her memory are Pat Tigner (William) of Hornsby (daughter); Brenda Howell (Johnny) of Bolivar (daughter); Charles Garrett (Susan) of Paradise Valley, Arizona (son); eight adoring grandchildren, Sandy, Wayne and Jason Garrett (Nicki), Sheila Rixie (Tim), John Robert Howell, Tina Faulk (Ethan), Rebecca Garrett, and Scott Garrett (Rose); Cristie Daniel (special niece); Joan Baker, Beverly Jeter, and Nancy Cobb (special friends); fourteen beloved great-grandchildren, Braden Rixie, Ashleigh Howell (Cody), Case Baker, Piper Baker, Caroline, Elijah and Patrick Garrett, Ethan and Dawson Giles, Hailey Dixon, Landon, Meadow, Valerie and Michael Garrett; three great great grandchildren, Ariel and Blakelee Dixon, and Keira Garrett; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Willie Lou Hannis was beloved by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Her kindness and dedication to her community were unwavering. She will be remembered for her strong work ethic, her joyful spirit, and her commitment to her faith. As we mourn her loss, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the lasting impact she made on the lives of those around her.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project in memory of Willie Lou Hannis.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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