Dennis J. “Big D.” Willett, 56, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 19, 2023, in Punta Gorda.

Born on September 5, 1967, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Buckhannon, West Virginia, to the late Norma and James R. Willett, Dennis, a graduate of Buckhannon-Upshur High School class of 1985, continued his education at West Virginia Wesleyan College, graduating in 1989, and was a member of the Kappa Alpha order Beta Chi Chapter established at Wesleyan in March of 1930.  He went on to pursue a Professional Degree in Law, attending Massachusetts School of Law, graduating in 1995.

While living in West Virginia, Dennis enjoyed WVU football games, tailgating in the blue lot, cookouts with friends and cracking open a beer after a long day of court.  He was extremely intelligent, sharp-whitted attorney in his 20 plus years of law practice.  Dennis was the life of the party no matter where he went.  He was always the “Host with the most”.  His infectious laugh and humor would bring a smile to anyone’s face.  He was a private man, but there to help or give great advice when needed.

In his later years of life, Dennis retired from the Law Offices of Nanners and Willett, and moved to Punta Gorda to look after his elderly mother and father.  He remained in Punta Gorda even after their passings as he enjoyed his new life and new friends he had made in the community.  Dennis was proud of his yacht that he recently purchased and was excited to sail on many adventures with his daughters and friends.  His daughter Sydney and her boyfriend, Zach lived with him in Punta Gorda during the time of his passing.

Dennis who was preceded in death by his mother and father, James and Norma Willett, is survived by his two daughters, Mallory Gale Willett, of Weston, WV, and Sydney LeeAnn Willett, of Punta Gorda, FL; a brother, Douglas Randolph Willett and his wife Jan Willett, of Richmond, VA; two nephews, Spencer and Preston Willett, of VA; and his best friend and former wife, Tracey Jo Willett, of Weston, WV.

Dennis devoted his time and work to his pride and joy, his daughters whom he loved more than anything in the world.  Mallory Gale and Sydney LeeAnn were the center of Dennis’ world, as was Dennis theirs.  He will be very deeply missed by his daughters.

A visitation for family and close friends was held on Friday, November 24th, 2023, in Punta Gorda, Florida.  No service plans have been confirmed as of this date, but please return to this Tribute page for updated information as may be available.

Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family.  Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home Punta Gorda Chapel.