Margaret Burnette Willis

Margaret Burnette Willis, 97, of Nebo, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her residence on March 23, 2026.

Margaret was a charter member of Calvary Baptist Church in Marion. She was an avid reader and a collector of antiques. She also loved playing Scrabble and working word searches. Margaret especially enjoyed tending her flower gardens and cooking for those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Willis, Jr.; her parents, Kenneth Burnette and Viola Wilson Burnette; her sister, Betty Ann Burnette Coursey; and her daughter, Kathy Willis Gallen.

Margaret is survived by her loving daughters, Patsy Willis Hicks (Arvin Hicks) of Nebo and Debra Willis Lancaster (Thomas Lancaster) of Marion; her son-in-law, Glenn Gallen of Salisbury; and her brother, Michael Burnette (Marilyn) of Marion.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Angie Bassett of Charleston; Melonie Thompson (Mark Thompson) of Salisbury; Wendy Davis (Johnny Davis) of Marion; and Morgan Pittman (Russell Pittman) of Marion. 

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Chase Thompson, Greyson Bassett, Katie Davis, and Mason Pittman.

Margaret will be remembered for her deep love for her family, her strength, and her caring spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of devotion and faith that will live on through the many lives she touched.

Margaret also had other special step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren: Arvin III, Amy, Jesse, Ashley, Missy, Jenny, John, Gannon, Sadie, Ransom, Gracie, Lilly, Cameron, Sebastian, and Griffin.

The family would like to thank Amorem Hospice of Valdese for their love, care, and support of Margaret at the end of her life.

A private graveside service will be held at McDowell Memorial Park.