Senona (Perez) Willis

Nona was born in Gonzales, Ca on August 9, 1952 to Emilio and Carmen Perez. She lived her whole life in her hometown except for a few years when she lived in Hawaii with her sister Emily. She graduated from high school while in Hawaii and went to work for Fairview Middle School where she spent her entire career working up to head secretary until her retirement.

Nona married the love of her life, Jerry Willis, on January 2, 1981. They shared a wonderful life filled with love and friendship before Jerry's passing in 2021. She missed him dearly every day and never really got over him being gone.

Nona enjoyed her daily coffee runs to visit her Gonzales Starbucks kids, they were very special to her and she always showered them with homemade goodies. The ultimate baker, there was always a baked good to be shared. Christmas was her favorite holiday, but she loved them all.

Nona is survived by her brother Joe (Erma) Perez, brother in law Ron Schaefer and sister in laws Bea Perez, Cindy Perez and Jeanie Churchill. Nona was blessed with many nieces and nephews, far too many to list, but she loved them all. She is also survived by her best friend, who she considered her sister, of many, many years Carol Powell. She loved shopping and traveling with Carol.

Nona shared a special bond with her nieces Heather and Cari and loved to plan trips to different places. Wherever they went, they always had tons of fun.

Nona was preceded in death by her husband Jerry, her parents Emilio and Carmen, her five brothers; Ray, Gene, Donnie, Frank and Sam and her three sisters; Emily, Alice and Carmen.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Eden Valley Care Center or the charity of your choice.

Published in King City Rustler and Salinas Valley Tribune · March 17, 2025