West Virginia Women Writers: Meredith Sue Willis

State Library Services
1900 Kanawha Blvd. E.
Culture Center, Building 9
Charleston, WV 25305

Phone: (304) 558-2045
Email: wvlcref@wv.gov

Meredith Sue Willis was born in Shinniston, WV. Even though she currently lives in New Jersey, the West Virginia coal town is the one she calls home. Memories and observations from her life in West Virginia are recycled in her stories, books, and poems. Willis’ father, a teacher, worked in the Shinnston mines between college semesters while he was a student at Fairmont State College and West Virginia University. Her mother is a coal miner’s daughter, college graduate, and educator too.

Writing and teaching are large components of Willis’ life. She carries titles like “writer-in-the- schools,” “adjunct faculty member,” “author,” “writing workshop presenter,” “teacher” and “course designer”. Her website discusses spiritual and ethical issues along with literary ones. On her website, Willis provides how to write advice and literary discussions.

Willis has participated in antiwar and civil rights demonstrations along with conducting writing workshops with teachers, students, and aspiring writers.