Stephen “Steve” “Papa” Eugene Willis, 72, of Bridge City, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Houston Methodist Hospital. A native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Steve was a longtime resident of Bridge City and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many.
Steve was a proud member of Liberty Baptist Church and faithfully served his country as a member of the United States Navy. During his distinguished military career, he served during both the Vietnam era and Desert Storm. He served as a Master-at-Arms in the Military Police and was also a firearms instructor. His years of service reflected the discipline, dedication, and sense of duty that were such an important part of who he was.
Outside of his military career, Steve found joy in the simple things in life. He enjoyed hunting and was an avid baseball fan, but above all else, Steve treasured his family. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Papa,” a name that represented the love, guidance, and special memories he shared with each of them. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished every opportunity to spend time with those he loved.
Steve leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love and memories that will continue to live on through his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Lisa Willis of Bridge City, Texas; sons, Stephen Christorpher Willis and wife, Dawn Lyn, of Orange, Texas, and Joshua David Willis and wife, Amber Dawn, of Fulshear, Texas; sisters, Tammy Jo Warren and husband, KB, of Vidor, Texas, and Toni Statum and husband, Jerry, of Vidor, Texas; grandchildren, Tyler Willis, Kaitlyn Willis, Madisson Arrant, Makaiyla Willis, Triniti Willis, Braddock Willis, and Isabella Evans; great-grandchildren, Logan Hardy, Westlyn Arrant, Rowyn Willis, Sutton Willis, Saylie Arrant, and one great-grandchild on the way.
For 53 years, Steve and Lisa shared a life built on love, family, and countless memories. The impact Steve made on the lives of his family will not end with his passing. His stories, his guidance, his laughter, and the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his family can find comfort in knowing that the legacy of “Papa” will continue through the generations he loved so dearly.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Steve’s memory to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.
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