Racine – Willie Lee Thomas, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 17, 2012. He was born in Racine on November 8, 1955, and was a life-time resident. Willie served with pride and honor in the US Marine Corps from 1973 – 1976.

Willie worked for the Racine Parks Department as a recreational leader at the John Bryant Center, where he'll be remembered by many for his sociable manner and sense of humor. His family will miss his loving care, concern, and guiding hand.

Willie is survived by his wife, Diane Thomas; daughters, Keona Thomas, Zsara Thomas, Anastasia "Lisa" Lowery, and Tesherra "Sherry" Lowery; grandchildren, LaShawna, Tia, Bryanna, and Arryanna Thomas; Danyell Petty Jr.; Kavellis Hadley, Johnnay Ward, Tazarious, and Tazhaya Riddle, Gregory Jackson Jr.; and Arbreshon McGruder; sisters, Mary Flowers, Gloria Thomas, and Patricia Thomas; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother and step-father, Warleen and Edwin Nash, and father, Isaac Robinson.

Homegoing services will be held in the funeral home at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 24, 2012. Interment and military honors will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will begin in the funeral home at 9:00 a.m.