250 years ago, my 4th Great-grandfather, Joseph Willis, became a Patriot. Today, his descendants, which include three of my grandchildren, celebrated that anniversary!
Tag: josephwillis
10 Steps to Becoming a Successful Writer
Randy Willis shares a reflective narrative on his journey to becoming a writer, emphasizing the importance of heritage and storytelling. He outlines ten steps for aspiring writers, including valuing family ancestry, immersing in research from a young age, and collaborating with established authors. Inspired by a friend, Dr. Sue Eakin, Willis discusses his works, particularly "Twice a Slave," which connects to historical figures like his fourth great-grandfather, Joseph Willis. He reflects on his writing process, incorporating life experiences and familial stories while highlighting the lessons learned from infamous authors. Throughout, he acknowledges the grace and guidance of God in his literary pursuits.
Has it all been predetermined?
When I founded Operation Warm Heart in 1991, I faced many challenges. Some on the streets of Austin, homeless and needy people, rejected the Gospel I was sharing. There were numerous reasons, but one stood out.
Ahyoka Willis: Bringer of Joy in Cherokee
Joseph Willis would continue into the lawless "No Man's land," the Louisiana Neutral Strip, a half-century before the Catholic Church. It would be here that he buried on the banks of the Calcasieu River the sleeve from the dress his mother, Ahyoka, used as a tourniquet to save Joseph Willis's father, Agerton's life.
Hell is empty, and all the devils are here
"Hell is empty and all the devils are here." —The Tempest, a play by William Shakespeare
Polk Willis & Anna Canady Willis
Anna Canady, 17, and out of harm's way on the Red River. The dirt is gone, but not her fears. Her Irish red hair can be seen for the first time in years. She soon meets a brash young boy, her junior, whom she does not understand. He will become the second most important person in her life, forever.
Joseph Willis: The Half-English, Half-Cherokee Pioneer
What race was my 4th Great-Grandfather Joseph Willis?
When Heaven Touched Earth: Except Louisiana
Randy Willis got the idea for my headline from Dr. Roy Fish's excellent book "When Heaven Touched Earth: The Awakening of 1858 and Its Effects on Baptists."
The Story of Joseph Willis | Randy Willis
Joseph Willis preached the first evangelical sermon west of the Mississippi River in 1798.