Homegoing Celebration for

FATHER WILLIS GENE MEEKS

January 19, 1938 ~ March 21, 2023 Monday, April 10, 2023 10:00 AM Second Baptist Church 925 South Shamrock Avenue Monrovia, California 91016 Pastor Christopher A. Bourne, Sr., Officiant

Order of Service

Live Streamed on YouTube @2bcmonrovia.com Viewing, Video Loop, Live Music Langston Theard, Musician Casket Bearers - Father Bobby Laird & Father Cyrus Davis Music Prelude & Processional Langston Theard, Musician Clergy, Family, SBC Diakonos, Councils of Fathers & Mothers Holy Scriptures Old Testament Psalms 23:1-6 Eric Meeks, son New Testament 2 Tim. 4:7-8, Rev 21:3-4, John 14:1-4 Pamela Moore, daughter Prayer of Comfort SBC Clergy Acknowledgement of Condolences Shauna Ricks, daughter Solo “Grace” Quella Porter Tributes and Resolutions • SBC Bishop Emeritus Wm. LaRue Dillard Velma Pratt • SBC Challengers Class Deacon Michael Dickson • SBC Council of Fathers & Mothers Father Amos Price/Mother Mary Price • Second Baptist Church Evelyn Jenkins-Coleman Solo “You Know My Name” Quella Porter Reflections • • • • • • •

(2 mins. or less max. please) NASA & European Space Agency Joint Project Andrea Angrum JPL Diversity Bob Ibaven JPL Retired Black Engr. Lunch Group Bill & Charlyn Kent Entrepreneurs/Business Ventures Bill & Charlyn Kent Neighbor & Mentor Darrell Pratt Friend Rev. Dr. Julius R. Scruggs-Past Pres. Natl. Baptist Convention The Meeks Family Pamela Moore, Shauna Ricks Keenan Moore, Erica Shaw

Solo “Don’t Cry For Me” Quella Porter Obituary Ondrea Pointer Eulogy, Invitation Pastor Christopher A. Bourne, Sr. Closing Prayer Clergy Recessional Clergy, Family, Diakonos, Councils of Fathers & Mothers, Gathered Assembly

Viewing after Meeks family leaves sanctuary for ½ hour

Immediately Following in Fannie M. Goodwin Banquet Hall Repast Reception & Video Memories 3pm Forest Lawn Covina Hills - 21300 Via Verde St. - Rev. Gregory D. Lowe, Officiant • Processional-Line Up in Cars for Cryptside Services • Park & Assemble for Military 21 Gun Salute • Interment

Obituary

Willis G. Meeks, born January 19, 1938 in Harlan, KY was just one year old when his father died leaving his older brother as a role model and guide for most of their lives. Willis began working as a janitor to help his family at age 12. He could not afford books so he memorized the lessons. In 1956, he graduated as the salutatorian from Rosenwald High School in his hometown. He enlisted in the United States Air Force, trained as an Electronic Technician and Avionic Specialist, served as a Missile Guidance Systems Specialist and had duties that included Cryptology Supervisor. Missile launching, tracking and test firing were his primary job duties. Honorably discharged, his civilian career began at the USAF Western Test Range. He worked on missile technology with increasing roles of responsibility until he was denied a management opportunity because he had no college degree. It took eight years, while working full time, to earn his Bachelor of Science and Master of Business Administration degrees from Cal State Los Angeles. Later he completed Stanford’s Senior Engineering Experience Program (SEEP). In 1966, Mr. Meeks began a 37-year career at Jet Propulsion Laboratory [JPL] in La Canada Flintridge, CA. He served as Network Controller for NASA’s Deep Space Tracking Network; was Mission Operations Project Engineer for planetary space missions, such as Helios - the first and closest mission to the sun. His other major projects were Surveyor, the world’s first moon landing mission, plus Mars and Venus missions. His duties included that of Chief, Mission Operations for SEASAT, one of the earliest Earth-observing satellites designed to test various oceanographic sensors and to gain a better understanding of Earth’s seas. Promotions from Chief of Mission Operations to Mission Operations Manager resulted in Mr. Meeks becoming the first African American Flight Project Manager at JPL and the recipient of their Outstanding Leadership Award. He was on the team responsible for the development and testing of the Minuteman Intercontinental Ballistic Missile [ICBM] that was then, and still remains today, our nation’s first line of defense. Willis worked to bring diversity to his workplace. He helped develop programs to recruit underrepresented minorities at HBICs; secured job opportunities globally for minorities and created hiring pipelines; mentored at-risk youth; implemented numerous Adopt-A-School programs throughout the Los Angeles, Pasadena and Altadena areas; worked with executive management to implement a first-ever review and held forums that discussed hiring, pay, and promotion equity regardless of gender, age and/or ethnicity. Before retiring from JPL in 1996, he was part owner of Ménage Club Café in Pasadena and sole owner of Spazzio Restaurant in Century City, both upscale businesses then. An acquaintance of Mrs. Ruby McKnight Williams, he partnered on community projects for Pasadena with her, local NAACPs and the Jackie Robinson Center. Too numerous to list, Mr. Meeks has received many awards for his technical, managerial and community achievements. As an investor, corporate executive, and co-founder of international businesses he focused on improving outcomes for the under-represented, under-served and emerging minority countries. These are reasons he has been selected as our 2017 Ruby McKnight Williams Award recipient.

Willis and his wife of 26 years, Magalene Powell-Meeks, reside in Rancho Cucamonga, CA. Since retirement in January of 2003 Willis has maintained a low profile and traveled. His passions: his family – the Meeks clan, of which he is the Patriarch, consists of four adult children - ages 42 to 60 years, six grandchildren - 10 to 35 years, four great grandchildren - 3 months to 16 years, dozens of nephews, nieces and cousins; and his church - the historic 115 year old Second Baptist Church of Monrovia where since he joined on February 16, 1992 he serves as a dedicated Bible Study and Sunday School teacher. He was previously Co-Director of Christian Education. His witness for Christ reaches far beyond the SBC campus. Willis’ counsel to all, “Don’t lie. Don’t steal. Don’t cheat. Do good and bless someone. Pray. Love.”

Willis Meeks Tributes “Willis, my dear brother, we accomplished some incredible things during our time together. Our bond was uniquely strong, unbreakable, and unwavering. Trust is crucial in both friendship and in business and, through the years, you were always a man of your word and one deserving of the utmost respect. It has been an honor to call you my BEST friend. I promise to continue our mission - to always pay it forward. I love you eternally and will miss you … see you on the other side my dear friend …” CB (Miami)

Dear Willis, I’m appreciating you giving me an additional family in the US and the pleasure of having a great time that I will never forget! Thank you for your role as a mediator, your understanding and your caring nature. Love, your goddaughter Zirintusa (Berlin)

Uncle Bill, How blessed we’ve been having you in our lives. You’ve been a constant and positive presence in our world, a great listener, your fun surprise visits. Such a kind, wise, and humble person, with too many accomplishments to mention. It’s been an amazing journey. I miss you already. Love, your niece Peggy (Ohio)

“The steps of a good man are ordered by God. We can make our plans, but God determines our steps.” We have been so very blessed to have Cousin Willis in our lives; as a man of wisdom, conviction, determination, and enthusiasm. Willis’s love of family, constantly sharing The Word of God, words of encouragement , prayers and support with be missed tremendously. As the Patriarch of the RamSeur family , Cousin Willis shared his light, love , energy and memories of our family history. As a Uncle & Cousin , he was vigilant about the welfare of our family. Grampy, Danielle, and Boe

Our limited amount of time on earth adds to the preciousness of our relationship and experiences in life that we will treasure . Cousin Willis will always hold a special value and place in our hearts. “Precious memories how they linger , how they ever flood my soul” Travel Well, The RamSeur Family “, Apple Valley, CA and Cleveland, OH

Willis, Thank you for being a mentor to my son, and for including me in your circle. I miss the daily text sessions and random conversations. You were a great cousin and a true patriarch of the family. Karen Weaver and Michael Deramus (Israel)

Dad said it best on 3/24/20: “As time passes in times of crisis, there is a tendency to start worrying about what worse thing will happen next. I pray that we remain strong and stay calm as a family, trust God to carry out His plan for us and support each other. Don’t let panic creep in and destroy faith, confidence and health.” Wilis Meeks Proverbs 3:5,6 We love you. Rest Well. — Pam, Ric, Larry, Genene, Keenan, Brandon, Skyla

Cousin : Your husband was a very great man by the way he was able to enlighten and often share obscure facts and knowledge on every subject we ever discussed. He ate, drank, and slept FAMILY. As a kid I met him on a visit to our house and we had a family trip to a Beach in Ohio where were with a host of cousins and we had a great time.. I heard my father call him Bill and I immediately thought that my cousin Bill was Billy Dee Williams because he had that look with the perfectly manicured afro and the calm and cool demeanor. In the following weeks I found out that he was not Billy Dee however he always had a special place in my heart because of the time and memories he shared with us on that special day. I will always love and cherish his Genuiness in everything he did. He was a person of true conviction and determination. I will miss his voice and his presence in a room that filled everyone’s soul with joy. I pray that you and your family have peace and keep his memories very close to your heart. I know our limited amount of time here adds to the preciousness of our experiences in this life. Bill enriched ours. He will always be a a sterling example for all the men in our family. Love you always, Ramseurs Family (Cleveland and Cincinnati, Ohio Mr. Willis Meeks entered my life as Willis. I was barely a teenager and he was the MAN who was marrying my Tia Mag. At age 17, he became UNCLE Willis, the UNCLE who showed me how to prepare my first suite tie for my high school prom. During my 20s and 30s, he became my MENTOR as I navigated through fatherhood and career. In my 40s, he became UNCLE-DAD. We had meaningful conversations on politics, economics and spirituality while burning the mid night oil countless of late nights into the early mornings. No matter what time I called my UNCLE-DAD, he would answer. On 22 March 2023, my wife called me in Kosovo to tell me my UNCLE, my UNCLE WILLIS, my MENTOR and my UNCLE-DAD is now my ANGEL. Kendrick Powell, nephew (Kosovo)

Thank you for being my best friend Grandpa - Elias and Caleb Ricks (Louisiana)

Dad thank you for being a friend I that I could talk to about anything… at any time. You laid a foundation that this family is proud of and I will always strive to do my part in maintaining all of those kindhearted Christian values you always exhibited, and continuing your legacy. —Eric

“Grampy, I love you so much and miss you incredibly. You were an amazing grandfather and great grandfather for my kids. I’ll forever cherish our “talks”. They meant so much to me and I’m grateful for the time we got to spend with each other. You were an incredible example so well rounded. I’ll hold dearly the ways you shared your wisdom, pointed me to God, taught me about finances, discussed politics, and vividly enjoyed time with my and my kids through your radiant smile. I love you and miss you! Gdau (Aka Miss)”(Nashville) Ecclesiastes 4:10 says in part… “but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.” In the spring of 1991, I arrived in Pasadena, as the first outside Police Chief in more than fifty years. I came alone, and knew no one, but faced the monumental task of mending a then fractured community-police relationship in short order. At times, at first, I felt isolated, under siege, and misunderstood by stakeholders with contrary agendas. I realized I needed a true friend. An area resident that knew the community well, was savvy, respected and as a business leader, understood my plight. Willis Meeks was that person God blessed me with. He had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to laugh, and was able to make his points and disagreements known without making an enemy. His advice was always sound, and I was drawn to his eloquence and style. Willis was there for me when I needed encouragement, felt lonely, or needed someone to just tell me things were headed in the right direction. He had my back. Over the many years since Pasadena, no matter where I traveled, Willis would be just a phone call away to “help me up” as the bible says, when needed. Felicia and I loved Willis and his beautiful wife Dr. Magalene (Mag) Powell-Meeks. May he rest in eternal peace and the memory of Willis G. Meeks be a blessing to all who loved and knew him. — Jerry A. Oliver Sr. (Arizona)

Grampy, Meeks, Dad, it’s taken me a while to bring myself to a point where I can sit here and type out the the words that are on my heart. You have impacted my life in such a way that made me feel like I’m your only Daddy’s Girl. You were gifted with that talent for all of us, and I mean your family, friends, extended family, colleagues, associates and seemingly anyone who met you. We’re all singing your praises in unison. How do I compile a lifetime of memories and gratitude into a few sentences? Grateful am I for all that you’ve always been to us. I will cherish the quality time we’ve spent together together talking about every topic under the sun... I will miss you tremendously Grampy. I Love you forever. “John 14:27. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” I am at peace because I know that you are. Rest well Dad.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord Is the death of His saints.” -Psalm 116:15 New King James Version —Brandon Meeks

Grampy, Thank you for your unconditional love, protection and guidance. I am incredibly blessed to be your great-granddaughter. You have provided me with your wisdom, knowledge and LOVE no matter my flaws and mistakes. I will always cherish our late night trips to menchie’s and our love for white cheddar cheezit’s. You’ve supported me ceaselessly and I am so grateful that I got to learn from you . Words will never explain the love and appreciation I have for you and all that you are and will continue to be for me. I feel comfort that you will continue to live through us through our obstacles, life trials and successes. I am so proud and honored to be a Meeks and I will continue to protect the integrity of our family’s name. As I navigate life, I will live everyday by your enlightenment and strategies. I love you so much, I will miss you everyday and I look forward to the day we meet again. - Skyla Meeks

Dearest Willis (aka, The W, Jimmy Matthews…“everybody know me”, Un Will, Bro Will, Uncle Will), To quote Briggs, “Our sad tears will turn into happy tears.” You’ve been a mentor, confidant and advocate in our lives. We’ll forever cherish your profound impact on us, collectively and individually. For over three decades, you effectively lead as our family patriarch and for that, we are forever grateful. The wisdom, humor, intellect, and compassion that you’ve shown us are immeasurable and have molded us as a family. Your renowned quote will continue to prevail: “Don’t lie. Don’t steal. Don’t cheat. Do good and bless someone. Pray. Love.” We are better for knowing you. With all our love, The Drakes and The Diazes

My brother and friend! I remember the day we met in Munich, many, many years ago when you traveled for your international missions work. It feels like yesterday! We became lifelong friends just from conversations in my restaurant, James Cafe, which was on the edge of town. Brigitte and I knew that you had to be the godfather to our daughter, Ziri; we didn’t even mind waiting two years for you to return for the baptism ceremony in the beautiful church we secured. I’m so glad that Ziri got to meet you and spend quality time in your home. We were supposed to come to the US together, for our next visit— but God knew best. I know we will get to dine together again. I love you forever. —James Mudde (Uganda)

Dear Grampie I can’t wait to be with you again. I love you and will see you in about 80 years; not that long. I can’t wait to be with you. We’ll have to have an eye rolling contest. Goodbye Grampie. I can’t wait to be with you. See ya soon! Your great-grandson, Zach (Vermont)

Grandpy, You have been a great example and blessing to me and my family. I will always remember all the lessons and the great conversations we have had. I will pay it all forward. You have left a legacy with us ALL. Your my Man, Grandpy!!! Love the Brodis!!!

Hey Buddy— We’re gonna miss you, terribly, at our monthly luncheons. We will miss the fun talks, the serious talks, and, especially, the memories of old that we often chatted and reminisced about. Our ‘engineering lunch time’ together — and the talks in between— will not be the same without you; but, you will ALWAYS be in our hearts. The Third Thursday Group aka JPL Retirees (Black Engineers) Luncheon Group

GG! You were ‘God’s Gift’ to me for over 31 years of marriage. I will never forget your brilliance, your humor, your care and concern for others, your generosity to strangers, your humanity, your love of family, nor your deep and abiding love for Christ. I’m going to miss our movie and book binges, our neighborhood drives, our smoothie runs, our workouts, our walks, our word games, and our marathon talks; just those simple, small things that best friends enjoy together. So many people love you and call you best friend, but no one loves you more than me, best friend; and no one loved me more than you. Magli (LOML)

To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me When I am gone, release me, let me go. I have so many things to see and do, You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears, But be thankful we had so many good years. I gave you my love, and you can only guess How much you’ve given me in happiness. I thank you for the love that you have shown, But now it is time I traveled on alone. So grieve for me a while, if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It is only for a while that we must part, So treasure the memories within your heart. I won’t be far away for life goes on. And if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near. And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear, All my love around you soft and clear. And then, when you come this way alone, I’ll greet you with a smile and a ‘Welcome Home’ - Author Unknown

Special Acknowledgments To Andrea Angrum Cecile Baker Jerry Brown Dennis Craig Michael Deramus in Israel & Karen Weaver

Alexis Diaz [Jason) Mervine Drake (Bartel) Ritaa Harris Anna Ramirez Bernita “Benny” Martinez Genene Meeks

James Mudde in Uganda Zirintusa Mudde in Berlin Jerry Oliver Alicia Powell Ron Stevens Bill Turne

George Harrison, Charlie Williams, Michael Dickson, Venda Hawkins & Valmore Thomas Keenan Moore, grandson Micah Brodi, grandson Rodney Sermons, godson Brent Ramseur, cousin

Don Burwell Elder Robert Craig Cyrus Davis Sam Fischer

Pallbearers

Dennis Craig, SBC Trustee Michael Dickson, SBC Deacon Steve Darden, SBC Men President Terrence Williams, SBC Church Clerk

Honorary Pallbearers Eric “Tony” Meeks, Son Brandon Meeks, grandson Tom Jackson, Gary Piggee, Ronnie Wallace and SBC Council of Fathers George Harrison Ellis Johnson Ernest Johnson Bobby Laird

Julius McLendon Cornell Myers John Parker Amos Price

Flower Handlers - Members of SBC Challengers Class Expressions of Gratitude There are no words to express our heartfelt gratitude for the sympathy, love, support, and prayers you have extended toward our family during this season of bereavement. Your outpouring acts of loving kindness will always be appreciated. The Meeks Family of Willis Meeks Services Entrusted to Forest Lawn Covina Hills 21300 Via Verde St., Covina, CA