Larry Willis Memorial Fund

On Sunday, September 30th, we lost Larry Willis, a world-renowned jazz pianist,arranger,writer, beloved brother, uncle, cousin and friend. As is the case with many jazz musicians of his era, Larry did not have any insurance will or savings.  The proceeds of this GoFundMe campaign will go toward his funeral, internment at his family cemetery in Scotland Neck, NC; and final medical expenses, clearing and cleaning his apartment; and for
legal expenses associated with researching and guaranteeing the Willis family’s ownership of his copyrights and royalties and CDs. 
I am Trish Cooper, designated by Larry as his favorite cousin. ☺️  The family  and friends will confirm this.  I will be meticulously managing the fund.  So far we have spent $2414.00 of which 2054.00 was paid directly to the Funeral Home, with the remainder used for transportation to Baltimore for the family for the two days of services. 

Larry Willis was one of the most  brilliant musicians of the 20th and 21st centuries. He played, composed, taught and arranged. Larry played on more than 300 records. According to Pierre Sprey of Mapleshade Productions, he played or recorded with almost every great musician of the modern era from his first album in 1965, "Right Now" with Jackie McLean, to Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Lee Morgan,  Hugh Masekela, Stan Getz, Art Blakey, Carmen McRae, Jerry Gonzalez, Cannonball and Nat Adderley,  Roy Hargrove, and many more.  He was a member of the  Blood Sweat and Tears for 7 years, to mention just a few. 

The Willis family cannot express how grateful we will be for  your help, which will help us give  Larry a wonderful send off and to preserve his brilliant legacy.  

Any amount of support you are able to give will be greatly appreciated. No amount is
too small. 

Thank you and God bless!