Coach Michael

Latonia Willis

Mr. Michael Latonia Willis was born on August 12, 1964, to Arthur Willis, and Mary Helen Watkins Jester in Griffin Spalding County, Georgia. He received his formal education in the Griffin Spalding County School System in Griffin, Georgia.

He was employed by the Griffin Spalding County School System as a Educator and Impactiful Teacher, and a coach for over 25 years. He was a pioneer for saome of the local sport organizations such as Griffin Grizxzlies, Griffin Grasshoppers, Griffin Drill Team, Georgia Most Wanted, Griffin BalckHawks and dedicated his time in the Parks and Recreation in Griffin Spalding County, Georgia. He was also a member of North Griffin Community Baptist Church in Griffin, Geprgia.

In his leisure time time he enjoyed cooking, fishjing, grilling, going to church and spending time with his family and friends. The one thing he loved the most was coaching sports. Through sports, he gave countless kids across neighborhoods and throughout the communities, a sense of purpose, and a place to belong. His influence went far beyond the game. He helped shape lives, build character, and created opportunties for so many young people.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, our Heavenly Father called him home. He fought a good fight, walked in his purpose by serving others, and poured his heart into the lives of those around him. Now his race is finished, his victory is won, and he can finally rest peacefully. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Willis and Mary Helen Jester (Willie "Jack" Jester, Sr.), siblings, Angela Denise Willis and Latasha Jester.

Michael leaves to cherish his memory his two children, Mercedes Peoples, and Maeshawn Peoples, his siblings, Willie Maurice (Shaquita) Jester, Jr., Tanisha Goodman, Tia Jester, Linda Jackson, A'Keti (Steve) Mayweather and 11 grandchildren. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Burden's Funeral Home. Service will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel at Burden's Funeral Home. The body will lie in state one hour prior to the service hour. Interment will follow in Griffin Memorial Garden.