Willie Lee Garner Sr.

Willie Lee Garner Sr. was born to Elbert Garner Sr. and Ruthie (nee Bailey) Garner on May 18, 1940 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Willie passed away at his residence on Monday, February 26, 2024.

Willie accepted Christ and was filled with the Holy Ghost at Joy of Bethlehem Apostolic Church (formerly Bethlehem Apostolic Church) in Lockport, Illinois under the leadership of Bishop Clord Jordan. Willie loved the Lord!

He worked many years at Sheffield Steel in Joliet, Illinois as a Crane Operator and his separation was due to an injury he suffered in May of 1985. He often boasted about his years of dedicated service, and how he absolutely loved his job. 

He enjoyed fishing, manicuring his yard and gardening.  He always encouraged others to keep their faith in God. He would not hesitate to help anyone in need. He never said no or refused to help anyone. He was an extremely loyal and good person. He was married to Sarah Lee Garner for over  50 years  who he loved so dearly.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Ruthie Garner and Elbert Garner Sr.; siblings, Elbert Garner Jr., Fred Lee Garner, Curtis Garner, Joe’C Garner, Isiah “Bay” Garner, Willie Garner, and Ricky Garner; children, Willie Garner Jr., Richard Garner, Mary Garner, and Patricia Garner.

He is survived by his children, Sarah Garner (Johnny Adams), Thelma Garner, Diane Garner, Belinda Walker, David Garner, Sylvester Garner, Albert Garner, and Larry Williams; siblings, Ella Wright McClay (Stanley McClay), Robert Garner, Maurice Garner, and Cleveland Garner; a host of grandchildren (53); his caregiver, Michael; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
 

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