Gerald N. "Papa Du" Wills, 63, of New Bedford died Friday April 20, 2012 at home surrounded by his family after a long battle with lymphoma.
Born in New Bedford, the son of the late Wilford and Phyllis O. (Clark) Wills, he lived in New Bedford all of his life.
Mr. Wills was formerly employed as a technician for the Polaroid Corporation.
He was a graduate of New Bedford Vocational High School, where he was a member of the football team. He was a member of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World, William H. Carney Lodge 200. He helped organize the children's community Christmas party for the Elks, and played Santa for many years. He played basketball in the 35 and over league.
Survivors include his longtime friend and companion, Julie Dias of New Bedford; his wife Carol (Rose) Wills of New Bedford; his children, Aletha Campbell, Radiah Wills, Marcus Wills, Jodie Crockett, and Gerald Wills, Jr., all of New Bedford; his siblings, Juanita Baptista of Dartmouth, and Raymond Wills and Melody Haynes, both of New Bedford ; and 13 grandchildren.
His Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday at 10 AM at the Union Baptist Church, 109 Court St., New Bedford. Burial will follow in Rural Cemetery. Visiting hours will be on Tuesday from 4-8 PM at the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.