Willie J. Cyrus 84 On October 24,1930 into greatness, Willie Jeff Cyrus was born to Jeff Cyrus and Letha Gaines. After a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease, Willie departed this life, walking into victory June 06, 2015. Willie was preceded in death by his mother, father, step father William Muckelroy and one son Larry Cyrus. Born a Denison Texas native, In 1953, Willie moved to Kansas City, Missouri after an honorable discharge, having served as a United States Marine. In 1969, Willie was united in marriage to Lillian White. Willie and Lillian shared 46 years of marriage, as a loving and devoted wife, Lillian was there when Willie took his last breath. Willie believed in God and was a member of Mt.Vernon Missionary Baptist Church until his health failed early 2000’s. Affectionately called Choo-Choo, a nickname given to him during his semi-pro football career with the Kansas City Buffalo’s, Willie was an entrepreneur and all around pillar in the community. Willie Cyrus change the way music was presented in Kansas City, turning concerts into events that the community looked forward to, planned for and he gave other promoters a great deal of competition. A legend among promoters, Willie witnessed the BIRTH AND RISE of some of our greatest musical legends to include: Patti LaBelle, B.B.King, Tina Turner,Bobby Blue Bland, Z.Z.Hill,Vernon Garret and Tyrone Davis to name a few. Among multiple accomplishments in the community, one that Willie was most proud of, was being presented with the KEY TO THE CITY. Willie was also the first person to host concerts at the Royals Stadium, booking acts such as Earth,Wind&Fire and Parliment. As the owner of the Townhall Ballroom, he promoted and worked with acts such as The Dramatics, The Dell’s,The Chi-Lites,Bobby Womack and Little Milton. One of Willie’s greatest ideas was the ever popular Thanksgiving Day Breakfast dance. This was an annual event that showcased Blues artist such as Denise LaSalle,Clarence Carter,Tyrone Davis,Little Milton and more. From promotion to production,this was one the greatest events the National Guard Armory had ever seen,thankfully…it is still being produced!   To cherish his memory Willie leaves behind his wife Lillian Cyrus, daughters Kimberly Cyrus, Darlene Cyrus,Rose and Carla. His sons, Michael Sims,Ronnie Cyrus, Ronald Cyrus and Ricky..grandchildren KaSyah Goodspeed, KuMari Goodspeed, Jocelyn Cyrus, Terrion Lacey, LaTonya Stewart, Michael Sims II, Steven Sims, Samson Sims and Larry Cyrus Jr., a host of other grandchildren and great grandchildren. Willie also leaves four sisters, Dorothy Brown, Delores Hill(Willie), Debbie Cyrus and Johnnie Nero, his brother, Wilbert Malvern and a very special cousin Lois Hoxie, his nieces Patrice Cadenhead(Charlie), Candice Brown(William) and Jackie Brown, nephews, Jimmy Brown(Loretta), Jeffrey Brown,Lamar Hill and Vincent Hill(Chinelle). Willie also leaves a host of great nieces, nephews, family and friends.