Willie James Redding, Jr. was born in Albany, Georgia on April 22, 1970.  He was the beloved son of Shirley Perry Redding and the late Willie James Redding, Sr.

He attended the public schools of Dougherty County, graduating from Dougherty Comprehensive High School in the class of 1990.

Willie was a very conscientious young man who, early in life, developed a passion for tinkering with lawn mowers.  Over the years, he sharpened his mechanical skills while performing miracles on countless lawn mowers, many of which people had written off as worthless.  He took pride in his skills and abilities and found great joy in his life-long passion that earned him the name "Lawn Mower Man."

Throughout his life, Willie  was a mild-mannered, goodhearted individual and a source of encouragement to many people.  He had an everlasting love for family and friends and truly enjoyed spending time with them.  He laughed often, felt unbridled happiness, and loved unconditionally.  "Poonie" as he was affectionately called, had a special way of getting to know people and becoming a part of their lives.  He was a friend you could depend on and he was always ready to lend a helping hand.  One of his finest qualities was gratitude.  Even in the midst of declining health, he was always grateful for every good thing that came his way.  He was an incredible son, a loving brother, a caring uncle, and an loyal friend who will be deeply missed by all  who dearly loved him.

On March 2, 2019, Poonie answered the Master's call to eternal rest.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his devoted mother, Shirley Perry Redding of Albany, GA; three siblings, Dewayne L. Perry and Regina Carter of Albany, GA, and Shabreka R. (Bryant) Floyd of Columbus, GA; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.