Willis Ned Gupton, age 67, went to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully, after his battle with cancer, at home surrounded by his family, on April 16, 2024. Born to Wilbur and Mary Helen Gupton on October 24, 1956 in Franklin County, Louisburg, North Carolina.

He was a cherished member of the Edward Best community where he made a countless number of friends through his love of sports (basketball and softball) and through his music. He gave his life to the Lord at a young age, loved sharing the gospel, and was a dedicated, long-time member of Cedar Rock First Baptist Church.

Willis worked for several years with the North Carolina Prison System. He also worked other various jobs as a car salesman, traffic engineer with Piedmont, Olsen, and Hensley (Raleigh), and the NC General Assembly as a security guard in Raleigh, NC.

He was most known for his life as a musician, singer, and entertainer, playing music with many different bands. Willis spent time in Nashville, TN playing music early in his music career. He moved to Nashville in 1994 with his family, where he produced an album, "Bringin' Home the Bacon."

Recognizing his talent, Louisburg Mayor Lucy T. Allen proclaimed May 20, 1995 as "Willis Gupton Day." For the last 17 years, he played music as a one man show on Ocracoke Island, NC, Emerald Isle, NC, and for various private shows, and frequently sang at his home church.

Willis never met a stranger and loved everyone he met. He always had a heart for helping others by donating his time and talents to charities, fundraisers, and church events.

Willis married Dana Collette on May 28, 1988, and together they proudly had two children, Danielle and Kyle. They also have two beautiful granddaughters, Avery and Chloe, and have a grandson on the way. His legacy is carried on through his family, which continues to grow. Kyle was taught to play the guitar by his dad, and he plays and sings to carry on his dad's musical tradition and style.

Willis was preceded in death by his parents. His memory will be forever kept alive by his loving wife, Dana, his children, Danielle Bolton (Casey) and Kyle, his grandchildren, Avery and Chloe, and close knit family of a niece, two nephews, and in-laws. His absence will be profoundly felt by his family, community, and many friends across the states.

In a final selfless act, Willis donated his body to science to hopefully help others who may face the same health battles he did. A memorial service will be held to celebrate his life at 3 p.m. May 5, 2024 at the Louisburg College Auditorium, 501 N. Main St, Louisburg, NC. Friends, family, and the public are welcome.

Paid obituary