Avanelle was born July 20, 1927, in Minford, Ohio, to Charles and Stella Fisher. She graduated from high school and married Harlan. They became Alaska residents in 1947, residing on Anchorage, Nondalton, Egegik, Dillingham, Wasilla and Eagle River.

As a newlywed, Avanelle worked in the banking industry, and later as a full-time mother and homemaker while raising eight children. She served 30 years as a missionary with her husband, Harlan, in remote Alaska villages under Arctic Missions and Baptist International Missions Inc.

Avanelle was very active in her church and missionary endeavors. Her hobbies included cooking, quilting and entertaining family and friends.

Avanelle was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, and especially loved being around her family and grandchildren.

Survivors include her son, Harlan E. Willis Jr. of Dillingham; daughters, Melba Willis Taylor of Olney, Ill., and Annette Willis Mastick of Pflugerville, Texas; son, Steve Willis of Wasilla; daughter, MaryAlice Sargent-Smith of Homer; son, Tyler Willis of Wasilla; son, Victor Willis of Eagle River; daughter, Valarie Willis Nabinger of Eagle River; 28 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents; two brothers, Harold and Charles Fisher; three sisters, Edith Powell, Evelyn Bennett and Connie Colley; and her beloved husband, Harlan E. Willis Sr.

Valley Funeral Home, Wasilla Chapel, cared for arrangements.