In Loving Memory of Willie L. (Jake) Larry

Willie Lee Larry, Jr. was born on March 28th, 1928, in Bradley County, Arkansas, to the union of Willie Lee Larry Sr., and Bessie Ingram. He was one of 12 children.

While living in Bradley County, he completed his formal education prior to leaving headed “up north”. What was supposed to be a life changing move to Detroit, MI changed when he stopped in Kenosha, WI on the way through and landed employment at American Motor Company. He would later change employment and ended up working for the City of Milwaukee, Department of Public Works for 35 years. He began his retirement in March 1990, lasting up until his passing. Willie would eventually become united in holy matrimony to his devoted wife Dehetta McElwee on August 15, 1958, and they were married for 39 years up until her death in 1997.

Willie departed life on July 15th, 2023, and was preceded in death by his parents, wife Dehetta, daughter Linda, and all 11 of his siblings, including Amos Steeps, James Ross, Jack Dean, Allen Cleotha, James Henry, Richard, Dwight, Donald, Beatrice and Theresa Larry. Those left behind to morn his passing includes daughters and sons, Wanda (Darryl) Coleman, Donnie (Mary) Larry, Carol (John) Thompson, Brenda (Andrew, ex son-in-law) Ward, Arthur Browne, and Richard Browne. Grand children, Zubin Coleman, Dayo Coleman, Pompey Coleman, Donnie Trotter, Michael, Eddie Ray, Bobby, Anthony Larry, Kanini (Nolan) Brooks, Kanika Ward, Kimani Ward, Rashida Browne, and Timothy Browne. Great- grandchildren, Desiree Ward, Jalen Brooks, Kaia Brooks, Kali Maa Free, Atum Ra Free, and Donnie Harrington.

Willie was a member of St. Mark AME Church and for several years, actively involved and appreciated for his outstanding work and dedication to the Food Pantry. He was a Mason, and a noble of the Mystic Shrine. And lastly, he was an avid fisherman…. with so many stories about “the one that got away!” His spirit, laughter, and storytelling will truly be missed! His favorite saying, that was told to him by his father, Willie, Sr.” Always be aware of your surroundings!” And that, he did.

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