Iota Phi Theta Founder Barron Willis Has Died

The Iota Phi Theta family is mourning the loss of one of its brothers.

Barron Willis, one of the 12 founders of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., died in California on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015. Iota Phi Theta Grand Polaris Robert M. Clark, Jr. announced the death of Willis in a post on Facebook.

Willis is survived by his son, Barron Willis, III, and his wife, Janet.

The cause of death was not disclosed.

“Indeed, it is with great sadness that I confirm the loss of Founder Barron Willis, Jr. on Wednesday, December 23, 2015,” writes Clark. “I have spoken with his son (and our Brother) Barron Willis, III, who informed me that the family is making final arrangements and that IOTA Family should send letters of condolence directly to his wife, Janet, at this time (address below). Once arrangements have been completed, the information about Founder Willis’ ‘going home’ activities will be forwarded to the Fraternity through the national office.”

Clark added:

“Bro. Willis, III, did want me to let the Brotherhood know that one of Founder Willis’ last wish was that he would transition and be cremated in his favorite Iota t-shirt, which did happen.”

Clark said before his passing he, along with his wife, had visited Willis—“although weak, he was still lucid and in good spirit,” he said:

“[Willis] spoke of the Brotherhood in a most positive and proud way.

Please keep Founder Willis, Janet and the entire Willis Family in your prayers.”

Another Facebook post by son Willis III shows how funny the Honorable Founder was.

“One of his last words to me was, “He who stands on toilet is high on pot.” …He was funny that way,” Willis III said.