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Willie Lee Haynes was born on December 8, 1936, in Nash, Texas. He was the second child born to parents, Willie Moses and Addie Bell Bailey Haynes. He was fondly known to his family and friends as "Buddy" or "Jack". To his children, he was simply "Dad", "Pop" or "Pop Haynes".

In 1954 he graduated from Dunbar High School in Texarkana, Texas. After high school he later attended Wilson Junior College in Chicago, Illinois. Deciding on a career in the military, he joined the Army where he served his country for 26 years. During active duty, he rose in rank from private, to sergeant, to lieutenant, to Captain in Military Intelligence, earning various awards, medals, and commendations along the way. His retired reserve rank was Lieutenant Colonel.

While in the service, his travels were broad across the United States as well as internationally including Turkey, Japan, and Thailand. Jack often referred to himself as a world traveler. Regardless of all his travels, what he enjoyed most was spending time with his family and friends. He loved good food and drinks as well as watching his favorite sports.

Upon retiring, Willie dedicated his life to becoming one of Jehovah's Witnesses. In 1985, he was baptized in Monroe, LA. He faithfully served as a regular pioneer for three years and as an Elder until his health declined.

He leaves to cherish his memories his dedicated wife of 64 years, Charlene Haynes of Texarkana, Texas; one son Michael (m. Lettie) Haynes of Trophy Club, Texas; three daughters: Sherry Roberts, Cathy Haynes and Tracey Haynes all of Fort Worth, Texas; two sisters: Virginia (m. Edward) Brock of Pullman, Michigan, and Dianne (m. Gerald) Glass of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; five grandchildren: Marquis Haynes, James Roberts, Sharlena Oviatt, Nancy Roberts, and Kalen Haynes; one great-grandchild Portland Eltoukey, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

On October 7, 2021, Willie Lee Haynes passed away peacefully. A man with a big personality and a big heart, he believed in being a man of his word and lending a helping hand. He lived a life well loved and will truly be missed.