On December 21, 1956, Mr. Willie James Gunn was born to the late James Gunn and Rosie Lee Manning Gunn in Downsville, Louisiana. Willie was an only child.

Willie received his educational training at the Eastside School in Farmerville, Louisiana. Willie was a working man, who always believed in keeping a job. He spent his early years in life working at various stores throughout the Union and Lincoln Parish area. He even served as a door to door salesman of clothing for a while. He served as a Custodian at Louisiana Tech University for a number of years, and then later became employed by the Lincoln Parish Police Jury, working at was known as the Federal Building, upon which he retired. Willie then became employed by the Lincoln Parish School Board, where he retired after 10 years on the job.

We thank God for the life of Mr. Willie James Gunn, allowing him to touch so many other lives as he passed this way. Willie leaves to cherish his memories: one uncle, Ozzie Manning, Jr. (Connie); his aunt, Barbra Manning, whom he loved dearly; the Gunn, Manning, and Simmons families; and many other relatives and friends.