By Cari D. Boyce
Special to Realty/Builder Connection
Fifteen years ago, Malcolm Willis was living not so far away in Georgia but he was a world away from the life he has here in Jacksonville today.
In the last 15 years, Willis has overcome obstacles that to many would be insurmountable. He says that through faith in God, hard work and the help of the people at Trinity Rescue Mission, he has achieved personal and professional success.
“In 1991 I was convicted of armed robbery,” Willis said. “I served five years in a Georgia prison. I turned to God to restore me. I started studying the Bible again and began to straighten out my life. By the time I was released, I was ready for a fresh start.”
In 1996, Willis left prison and his old life behind. He came to Jacksonville and Trinity Rescue Mission at the recommendation of the prison preacher, Mike Sapp, a graduate of Trinity Christian Academy.
“The people at Trinity are wonderful,” Willis said. “The executive director, Gene Pruett, looked out for me those first few years. Within 18 months of my release, I was ready to start Willis Stucco.”
Six years ago, Willis married his wife, Traci, a certified public accountant. They have two children, Jarrett and Madelyn.
In 2003, Willis earned his general contractor’s license and started Willis Contracting Inc.
“We work in new residential construction and serve all of Northeast Florida,” Willis said. “The first year Willis Stucco grossed $17,000. Now, after eight years, we are running a $2.5-million business.”
Willis said his wife is a vital part of the business.
“Traci is the financial supervisor for both companies. She takes care of our children and me. She is a blessing to our family and our businesses.”
Willis’ experiences and personal and professional success have inspired him to give back to the community and, in particular, Trinity Rescue Mission.
Willis Stucco completed all of the stucco work for the entire top half of the Center.
Greg Matovina, a past president of the Northeast Florida Builders Association and president of Matovina & Company, along with his father, Tom, coordinated the Women and Children’s Center Raise the Roof effort last summer. The effort drew more than 200 volunteers to give the construction project a major thrust forward.
“Malcolm showed up with his own crew,” Matovina said. “They did most of the sheeting of the south wall and worked very hard during the event.”
Pruett also has high praise for Willis, his family and his work.
“Malcolm Willis and his wife Traci are both examples of the spirit of gratitude in action.” Pruett said. “They have been generous supporters of Trinity Rescue Mission and other worthy causes for many years. They worked hard to build Willis Stucco into one of the finest stucco contractors in the area and are committed to making Jacksonville a great place to live for all of our citizens.”