Clarence Willis

Clarence Willis was born on June 7, 1950, to Enos and Mary Lee (Towns) Willis in Shreveport, LA.  He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1968 and attended the University of Dayton graduating in 1972 with a B.S. in Art Education.  He also became a founding member of the college’s chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated.  He was a faithful member of St. James Community Church, Alpharetta, Georgia.  He previously played in the church band and sang with the Men of Valor.

Clarence (Chet) started playing guitar at an early age, being influenced by the sounds of late night radio broadcasts.  Early in his music career he played for a local gospel group called the Gospelteers. While still playing with them he joined a band in high school known as the Majestics who won several talent shows.  The group continued to play throughout college and recorded a single. The Majestics later changed their name to The Overnite Low. He left the group in 1975 when he was recruited to join the Ohio Players as a rhythm guitarist where he played, wrote and sang.

When he left the Ohio Players, he joined James “Diamond” Williams and Billy Beck and they formed their own group called Shadow.  And they recorded three albums.

He continued to be involved in several music projects including producing and writing.  This resulted in his own venture the C-Dub Project with Harry McLoud.

Ohio Players remain today touring worldwide and Clarence was their lead guitarist until his illness.

Clarence leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 45 years, Sheryl and  daughter Alyssa Willis (Fernando Sierra),brother Jeffrey (Willetta) Willis, sisters Evelyn Willis (Edward B. Jr.) Rowland and Yvonne (Stan) Rollins. Nephews Michael Willis, Jerrald Willis, Jamal (Joi) Willis and Antoine (Tony) Rowland and Rickey Gambler, Jr. and beloved cousin John S. (Barbara) Towns.

 He also leaves a host of special great nieces, great nephews, cousins, relatives and musician friends.

Funeral service 11 am Friday, April 4, 2025 at Phillips Temple Church, 3620 Shiloh Springs Road, Trotwood, OH. Visitation 10 am to 11 am at which time family will receive friends. Arrangements entrusted to House of Wheat Funeral Home.

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