11/22/2025
A true sports enthusiast, John was an avid football fan and a lifelong die-hard supporter of the Washington Football Team. Whether celebrating their victories or shaking his head through their losses, his loyalty never wavered.
After relocating to Bear, Delaware, John continued his walk of faith. Faithfully and regularly attended Hickman AME Church in Philadelphia, participating in the Men's Fellowship, and also joined Chapter 85 of the Federal Retiree Association of Delaware. Ever the social spirit, he was a passionate card player and enjoyed time with friends at the Newark Senior Citizen Center Pinochle Club.
John was a strong believer in the power of education and knowing one's heritage. He often encouraged the younger generation to pursue their dreams and to stay connected to their roots especially their Black history. To his family, John Willis wasn't just a father, husband, brother. or cousin he was everybody's brother, uncle, and friend.
John John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gloria Green; his brothers Samuel (Rosemary) Green and Timothy Green; his sister Doretha (Arthur Lee) Berryman; and brother-in-law Peter (Barbara) Scott.
He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Josephine Green; daughter Kecia (Arturo) Maynard; grandsons Arturo (Keva), Khalil, and Keanu; great-grandchildren Arturo Maynard and Sariya Maynard; brother Joseph (Suesther) Green; brothers-in-law Spencer (Carlisa) Scott, Bernard (Francine) Scott, and Paul (Thomasina) Scott; sister-in-law Barbara (Peter) Scott; cousin Diane Bailey; nieces Phyllis Flowkes, Gloria (Walter) Wilson, Pamela Green, and Yulonda (Bryan) Green-Johnson, April Scott, Ebonie Murphy, Tammy (Michael) Williams, Jill (Marcos) Lewis, Keisha (Reggie) Washington, Helen Scott; nephews Tony (Mike) Lane, Sean (Tiffany) Green, Bernard Scott Jr, BJ Scott, Donovan (Karen) Archie; and a host of first cousins, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dear friends.
John was called home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Though he is no longer with us in body, his love, strength, and spirit will forever live in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.
John Willis Green lived a full and generous life-rooted in faith, grounded in family, and rich with love, laughter, and service. His legacy will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Willis Green, affectionately known as John Willis (JVV), was born on June 23, 1941, in Dendron, Virginia, to the late John Berkley and Rebecca Green. At the age of 16, following the passing of his father. John stepped up to become the man of the house. Together with his mother, he became a key decision-maker for the family, ensuring that the household remained strong and supported. Alongside his siblings, he worked diligently to help keep the family's finances stable and the household running smoothly. From his earliest days in Surry County, Virginia, John learned the value of family, hard work, and faith-principles that guided him throughout his life.
Education was important to John, and he began his schooling at L.P. Jackson in Surry County. He eventually moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, there he began building a life filled with purpose, faith, and love. On December 26, 1964, John married Gloria (Scott) Green, and together they shared a beautiful union that lasted 52 years. From this marriage came their beloved daughter, Kecia (Green) Maynard. After marrying Gloria, he moved to Maryland, where they built a life centered on family and service. Later in life, John was blessed to find love again, marrying Josephine Davis on June 22, 2024, who remained faithfully by his side.
John's career journey reflected his strong work ethic and
determination to succeed. Most of his work life was with Montgomery County Public Schools, where he retired after 30 years. His leadership extended beyond his daily duties he also served as a union representative for MCPS Support Service Staff, always advocating for fairness and the well-being of his colleagues. Over the years, he also worked as a short-order cook in Washington, D.C., and S. Kleins. In addition, he earned his Detective License with the State of Maryland.
Beyond his professional achievements, John was a proud and devoted member of the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, In America and Jurisdiction, where he served faithfully for more than 45 years (Sandy Spring Lodge #6430, Maryland District Lodge #14, Area II Director, Executive Office of the committee of Management) and ultimately rose to the distinguished position of Most Honorable Grand Master.
John's life was rich with joy and simple pleasures. He loved cooking-and everything he made was delicious. He enjoyed playing cards, especially Bid Whist, Pinochle, and Phase 10, and could often be found surrounded by family and friends, sharing laughter and good food. Family gatherings were the highlight of his days; family was everything to him. John had a generous heart - always willing to lend a hand, often more than he should have-but that was simply who he was. (draft transcription)
