LAPD's West LA Station Embraces 'Mrs. Willis' as Beloved Volunteer

The 90-year-old mother of actor Bruce Willis has dedicated 22 years to supporting the department.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 5:03am

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Marlene Willis, affectionately known as 'Mrs. Willis,' has been volunteering at the Los Angeles Police Department's West LA station for over two decades. Despite being the mother of actor Bruce Willis, she never mentions her famous son and instead dedicates herself fully to supporting the officers and staff at the station.

Why it matters

Mrs. Willis' story highlights the power of community engagement and how a single dedicated volunteer can make a meaningful difference in the lives of public servants. Her selfless actions and warm presence have earned her icon status at the West LA station, serving as an inspiration for how citizens can support their local police departments.

The details

As a volunteer, Mrs. Willis reviews police reports, makes notes, and checks grammar three days a week. Her presence alone is said to put smiles on officers' faces, and in some cases, she will even give them a comforting hug after dealing with difficult incidents. Mrs. Willis has been recognized as the LAPD Volunteer of the Year and was even awarded an honorary police badge by the former police chief.

  • Mrs. Willis has been volunteering at the LAPD's West LA station for 22 years.
  • She was named the LAPD Volunteer of the Year at an awards ceremony.

The players

Marlene Willis

A 90-year-old volunteer at the LAPD's West LA station, affectionately known as 'Mrs. Willis.' She is the mother of actor Bruce Willis, but never mentions her famous son while volunteering.

Michel Moore

The former police chief of the LAPD who awarded Mrs. Willis an honorary police badge in recognition of her dedicated service to the department.

Rich Gabaldon

The commanding officer of the LAPD's West LA station, who has described Mrs. Willis as an 'icon' at the department.

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What they’re saying

“Mrs. Willis is a very integral part of West Los Angeles and the LAPD. She is an icon here.”

— Cpt. Rich Gabaldon, Commanding Officer, LAPD West LA Station

“Marlene, there are people in our lives that when you cross their path; they leave a lasting impression. You are one that has risen to the top of one of the best impressions. To you and the work you do, we will be forever grateful.”

— Michel Moore, Former LAPD Chief

What’s next

The LAPD plans to honor Mrs. Willis' decades of service with a special ceremony at the West LA station in the coming months.

The takeaway

Mrs. Willis' story demonstrates the profound impact a single dedicated volunteer can have on a community. Her selfless actions and warm presence have earned her icon status at the LAPD's West LA station, inspiring others to follow her example of supporting their local law enforcement.