Willis Manard Adair

Willis M. Adair, 92 � Visalia, passed from his earthly home on Friday January 11, 2019 to his eternal home in Heaven with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was born November 5, 1926 near McAlester Oklahoma to Eugene and Lily (Nave) Adair. He joined the Navy at just 16 years old to fight for his country during WWII. He served on the USS Columbia from 1942 � 1945 enduring several major battles. In September 1948 he married Hilda Stewart in Reno Nevada. They had one child, a daughter Rhonda. He was a truck driver for most of his career. For almost 45 years he and Hilda made their home in Corcoran, CA before moving back to Oklahoma for eight years and then returning to Visalia California in 2002 as great-grandchildren began entering the family. Willis was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings. He is survived by his wife Hilda, daughter Rhonda Crabbe of Visalia and her husband Richard, grandson Brian Crabbe of Visalia, granddaughters Jamie Smith and her husband Ryan of Visalia, Lacey Arellano and her husband Kevin of Palm Desert. His "five little greats" as he called them; Kaylee Arellano, Payton Donley, Makenna Arellano, Collin Donley and Karsyn Arellano. His sisters Mary, Earlene, Jerlene, Carolyn and brother Buddy. He loved old country music, singing, playing guitar, banjo and harmonica. He loved to fly and obtained his pilot's license many years ago. Until recent years, Willis and Hilda enjoyed playing bingo with the seniors in Tulare and Visalia and made many friends. He was "a true patriot" who loved his country and was proud to have served to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. He taught his family what it meant to be humble. He demonstrated being positive even in times of trials. He was a kind gentle soul with a big heart full of love for his family and others. He always initiated a conversation with anyone he came in contact with and left his mark on many lives wherever he went. We will miss his sweetness, his gentle spirit, his humor and quick come-backs that constantly made us laugh. He is already missed more than mere words can describe. Our love for you daddy/Papa-A will never cease. Farewell until me meet again. Condolences can be made to www.salseranddillard.com Private services will be held, interment in Bakersfield National Cemetery. Arrangements made through Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel.

Willis Manard Adair

November 5, 1926 - January 11, 2019