It was with a very heavy heart, that CEO of Naughty Nights
Press (NNP) announced to the writers and staff that our friend and colleague,
Shane Willis, owner of RadAct Photo, book cover designer extraordinaire
and “creator of photographic visions”
had passed away on August 31st 2013.
The shock of Shane’s passing has not only devastated his
family and friends who knew him in real life, but it has also rocked the
authors of NNP, the photography community and modeling community, not to
mention those who knew him through Facebook and other social media sites.
Shane had a vision for the book covers he designed for NNP
and went above and beyond to make sure that they would capture a person’s
imagination, making them want to read what was between the covers.
His passion was such that each cover was unique in the sense
that he photographed his own models and would then add in all the little
extra’s to make sure that his model was true to the character. That could be
anything from change of eye or hair color—to adding tattoos or jewelry.
Shane became revolutionary when it came to digital eBooks by
photographing his own models and not relying on stock photos or drawings,
though there were times where he did use the odd stock photo but that was a
rare occasion.
Each new cover would excite him (even the ones that were
more difficult with detail).
Shane not only had a love of photography which can be seen
in his published photo’s but also a love of writing. Alas he left us before he
could see his dreams as an author realized and I have it on very good authority
that they were excellent manuscripts.
It is hard to sum up what Shane Willis meant to each and
every one of us without using the words “love”, “admire”, “inspirational” and
“wonderful”, “creative”, “funny” and “a true friend”.
So I am going to end this tribute to Rodney Shane Willis
with this.
Tears form at the mere mention or thought of you.
You were taken from this world far too early.
Never will you be forgotten.
Always to be remembered.
May the beauty you gave to us be forever treasured.
The world is a much quieter and duller one
Now that you have gone.
R.I.P Shane Willis
We all love you and will miss you,
Naughty Nights Press (NNP)
If you were one of the lucky ones to know Shane, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Visit Rad Act Photo to view the vast range of photographs and book covers Shane has created.
I think you have summed it up perfectly. Shane was a fantastic person, and I am proud to have his work for 3 of my covers; the covers of my first 3 published works, might I add. I will always remember the great man that he was whenever I see them now. Peace be with Shane now. <3
ReplyDeleteI didn't know Shane but I wanted to pass on my condolences to all who knew and loved him. Sleep tight Shane x
ReplyDeleteA beautiful tribute to a very special man. Shane, you were taken from this earth far too early. RIP
ReplyDeleteWhat a terrible loss. We will all miss you, Shane.
ReplyDeleteI have never had the pleasure of knowing Shane. However, I could tell from all the wonderful art he has created that he was a true artist in every sense of the word. And, much like Shane himself, we should also all be honored at the level of detail he has given each and every one of us to admired and displayed
ReplyDeleteR.I.P. Mr. Willis
He was a great man, my only books ever to be published all carry Shane's unique and unmistakable artistry. I have one more book which will bear his cover, it will be a sad day when that is released... He was an amazing man to work with, and will be terribly missed.
ReplyDeleteThat was a lovely tribute, he truly was a great artist! And a great guy!
ReplyDeleteI was honoured to have his artwork on one of my books and very saddened for his family and friends at this time. God bless them with strength and faith.
ReplyDeleteHe was such a great artist. I loved all his covers! God bless him!
ReplyDeleteIf you are interested in contributing to Shane's funeral expenses, Munden's Funeral Home will accept credit card donations over the phone. (252) 726-8066. Remember his full name is Rodney Shane Willis.
ReplyDeleteShane was a dear friend. We were drawn together by our love of art. His self taught artistic talent has always been inspiring to me. I encouraged him to branch out into B Movie Poster art. He was hesitant I think at first, but like everything else, he embraced it and made magic! I will miss him. It is rare to find such wonderful kind people in this world. He was a true friend. Miss you Shane! Love - E
ReplyDeleteAs one of Shane's friends and models since '06, I can't put into words how greatly I personally miss him. There is just not another Shane in the world. His creativity, vision and passion are like no other. He will forever live as it is our duty to carry on his work, to inspire other Shanes in this world.
ReplyDeleteI miss you every day, but I remind myself i was blessed to have had ou in my life and as a close friend.
♥,
Your Sprite,
Cristina