Willie Franklin Harts, 77, of Rocky Point passed peacefully from his earthly life Monday, November 18, 2019 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

He was born July 26, 1942 in Pender County, the son of Wilbur Linwood and Annie Victoria Hale Harts.  In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Hardin Harts and sisters, Amanda Harts Kosh, Vicky Harts Jonkheer, and Virginia Dare Harts Suggs.

Willie is survived by his son, Willie Franklin Harts, Jr. and wife, Angela; grandson, Cody Harts and wife, Sara; step-grandchildren, Chance Murray and Dani Todd; brother, William Linwood Harts and wife, Linda; sisters, Nancy  Harts Morris and husband, Bruce and Rena Cooper and husband, Ronnie; and many extended family and friends.

Willie considered it his honor and privilege to serve his country in the US Air Force and in the US Naval Reserves and he served with pride, dedication and loyalty.

He was devoted to his family and loyal to his friends. Willie found great joy in the simplest of things, but his greatest joy was family.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing in God's beautiful world of nature. Cooking, oh my! Willie could stir up some good food for all to enjoy. Willie leaves a legacy of the importance of God, Family and Country.

The family will receive friends 6 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 22, 2019 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw. Graveside service will be 12:00 p.m. Monday, November 25, 2019 at Greenlawn Memorial Park with The Rev. David Miller conducting the service. Military honors will be accorded by the US Air Force Honor Guard.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall.

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.