Willis J. Mobley's Obituary
MOBLEY, Willis J., age 86, of Dayton and formerly of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, passed away Saturday, May 13, 2026, at the Dayton VA Medical Center.
Willis graduated from Sapulpa High School, class of ’58. He honorably served in the United States Army during the Vietnam era and was very proud of his service to his country. He retired in 2003 from Tayloe as a truck driver after more than 20 years of service. He was a devoted member of the Sapulpa American Legion Post 36. He was a well-known and successful player in Horseshoe Pitching.
He had a passion for casinos and loved visiting Las Vegas and the River Spirit Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he would mostly play the slot machines. While at home, he enjoyed playing card games with family members and friends. Shooting craps and playing poker were some of his favorite games. He was a huge OU Sooners football fan, and later in life, he enjoyed watching the OU Sooners girls’ softball. Another one of his passions was traveling. He enjoyed trips to Las Vegas; Biloxi, Mississippi; and Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Willis was even trying to plan another trip to Las Vegas for this coming summer with his family.
Outgoing and loyal, he had a giant heart. He had a soft spot for dogs and loved them all. He loved listening to outlaw country music, especially Merle Haggard. He learned to love ‘Google Home’ and would request music choices frequently. Some of his fondest memories revolved around the house for family dinners, big Easter egg hunts, family get-togethers, and family vacations. He enjoyed collecting baseball cards and was very proud of his Mickey Mantle card. He loved his Lincoln Town Car and kept it in pristine condition. In addition, over the years, he collected watches and hats. He loved a ‘good hat’. Among many things, he will be remembered for the love and pride he had for his wife, daughter, and grandchildren.
Willis was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley G. Mobley, in 2019; his parents, Jesse and Leota Mae Mobley; and one brother, D Mobley. He is survived by one daughter, Gentry (Michael) Ellis, and three grandchildren, William, Jessica, and Jackson Ellis.
A graveside service will be held at 2 pm on July 1, 2026, at the Dayton National Cemetery. Stubbs-Conner Funeral Home in Waynesville is serving the family. If desired, contributions may be made to Sapulpa American Legion Post 36, 105 E Lee Ave, Sapulpa, OK 74066. Condolences at https://www.stubbsconner.com.
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