GRANTSBORO – Todd Willis was a meteor. A bright, shining, spiritual, inspirational light across our constellation. In 2016, his brainchild, Neuse River Bait & Tackle, won the Chamber’s New Business of the Year. His annual fishing symposiums were massive sellouts. In June of this year, his entrepreneurial flair hit the crossroads of Pamlico County with a huge mega-store. Next door, a new eatery christened the ‘Wobbly Hog Smokehouse’ became both an instant success and Todd’s heartfelt tribute to his beloved grandfather, Lionel Willis.
Along the way – no matter how busy – this remarkable human being ALWAYS had time for Heather, Colton, co-workers, customers, and anyone else who had the good fortune to enter his spectrum. He was funny, positive, upbeat, optimistic. Spend just seconds with this young man and you came away feeling enthused, happy. Todd seemed to love everyone!
Please! Let’s all do our part to carry on the legacy and memory of Todd Willis! We will forever be a better, more loving community.
Shannon “Todd” Willis, Jr.
Todd Willis, 34, resident of Grantsboro passed into eternal life Monday evening, October 25, 2021 at Carolina East Hospital.
Todd was born on August 14, 1987 in New Bern, North Carolina. Todd excelled in many things at a very early age such as, walking fully at approximately 9 months old. This was just a small sign of what God had in store for him! Todd met the woman of his dreams in 2008. They were inseparable. In 2014, Todd and Heather welcomed their son Colton Willis into the world. This was by far his greatest accomplishment.
In 2015, Todd opened a local tackle shop. This business (Neuse River Bait & Tackle) grew beyond his belief with the help of many loyal customers near and far. Todd recently moved his business to a bigger location to accommodate the growth. With this followed the opening of the restaurant (The Wobbly Hog Smokehouse) located next to his tackle shop.
Todd had a heart of gold and would help anyone in need. His goal in life was to make anyone that came into contact with him smile and feel like family. Todd was a very selfless person and often put everyone before himself. He never met a stranger! He could always find something positive to say in any situation.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Lionel Elbert Willis Sr. and Aunt Paula Willis Banks.
Todd is survived by his loving wife Heather Willis; son Colton Willis; father Shannon Willis Sr.; mother Tina Mitchell; sister, Haley Lewis & Gracie Willis; and brother, Davin Allen.
Visitation will be held at Pamlico Community College, Saturday, October 30th from 12 pm-2 pm. Memorial services will be at 2pm. Private burial with Family will follow.
Flowers and Donations can be sent to Bryant Funeral Home located in Grantsboro.
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