Willie Whitlock, Sr., beloved son of the late Josephine and Henry Whitlock, Sr., was born in Albany, Georgia on July 25, 1927.

He received his formal education in the public schools of Dougherty County.  Throughout school, he participated in various student activities and events.  Ready to serve his country, Willie enlisted in the United States Navy and served honorably as a Steward for more than six years.

From a very early age, Willie was taught the Word of God and the importance of living a life of integrity and strong character.  As a youth, he accepted Christ as his personal Savior and began his journey with the Lord at Second Mt. Olive Baptist Church.  As he continued in his Christian stewardship, he united with Bibleway Baptist Church where he served faithfully as a Deacon.  In later years, he  united with Mt. Zion Baptist Church and remained steadfast in his service.

Willie was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lillian Nicholson.  Their union endured for sixty-eight years and was blessed with thirteen children.  He was a loving husband and father whose family was the joy of his life.  For more than 60 years, he worked untiringly as a self employed roofer to provide for his family and ensure their well-being.  Even after retirement, he provided handy-man services well into his nineties.  He gave his BEST, no matter what the task.

"Lil Bro" as he was affectionately called, loved his family; treasured his friends; and was always on call to help anyone in need.  He had a big heart for all things in life.  Willie was actively involved in community affairs and was often the first person to cast his vote at the Jackson Heights precinct in various elections.  He wanted to ensure that his vote counted and that his voice was heard.

On February 2, 2021, Willie answered the Master's call to eternal rest.   In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by four siblings, Barbara Arnold, Esco, Ernest, and Ralph Whitlock; four children, Cheryl Bridges, William, Rendall, and Lillian Y. Whitlock; and two grandchildren, Rhonda Whitlock and Wayne Folk, Jr.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Lillian N. Whitlock; children,  Willie (Zethalyn) Whitlock, Jr., Roderick (Patricia) Whitlock, Anthony (Carolyn) Whitlock, Kenneth Whitlock, Cartier (Wendy) Whitlock, Pamela McCray, Christina Folk (Eric Martin), Valerie Whitlock, and Rhonda (Harold) Daigs; siblings, Sam Whitlock, Henry Whitlock, Jr., and Joann (Johnny) White; brother-in-law, Rev. Johnny Arnold; god-children, Patricia and Kenneth Towns; niece/daughter, Wanda Faye Hill; nephew/son, Tony (Regina) Arnold; 22 grandchildren, 46 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.