Nila Carolyn Willhoite

Nila Carolyn Willhoite, passed away on November 22, 2025 at the age of 86. She was born on August 8, 1939 in Dublin, Texas, raised in River Oaks and spent her youth in Fort Worth, where she cultivated a spirit of determination that would define her life’s journey.

Nila graduated from North Side High School and married the love of her life, Jay Willhoite, in 1957. Together they shared 68 years of marriage filled with devotion, strength, and laughter.

While raising her three children and working full time, she graduated magna cum laude from Texas Christian University, a reflection of her work ethic and dedication. She began her career as a high school teacher and served as the cheerleading sponsor. Later, she moved into healthcare, working her way from food service to eventually becoming an Executive Vice President of Willis Knighton Health System in Shreveport, Louisiana. Over her 31 years at Willis Knighton, she helped plan and open three hospitals and several other healthcare facilities that contributed to it becoming the largest hospital system in Northwest Louisiana. Additionally, she established the first compliance department and served as the Corporate Compliance Officer. Nila’s commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail inspired others to work towards the same standards of excellence which have impacted countless patients and their families. Outside of her professional life, she served as Board President of the Shreveport Symphony.

Nila is preceded in death by her parents, Pink and Jesse Armstrong, and her brother Burton Armstrong. She is survived by her loving husband, Jay Willhoite, and her three cherished children Pam Willhoite, Brian (Elizabeth) Willhoite, and Leigh (Martin) Moorman. She was a proud grandmother to six beloved grandchildren, Timothy (Deanna) Willhoite, Rachel (Chris) Norcross, Erin Moorman, Ann Marie Moorman, Claire Moorman, and Madison Willhoite, and seven great grandchildren. These relationships were central to her life and legacy and will be profoundly felt through the stories and memories shared by her family.

Nila was a woman of incredible strength, which she carried with grace, warmth, and joy. She dedicated her life to creating a home where everyone felt welcome. She loved time spent at their house on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas, cruising on the boat, watching sunsets, needlepointing, and hosting gatherings filled with good food and company. She created memories that will be cherished forever. Her faith guided her throughout her life and shaped the way she cared for others. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she built, the lessons she passed down, and the deep love she poured into her family.

A memorial is planned for a later date in Shreveport, Louisiana.