Willie E. Haggerty

Willie graduated from Pemberton High School before being offered a football scholarship to Wiley College. Though passionate about the game, he made the selfless decision to turn down the scholarship to join the United States Navy and help support his mother—faithfully sending money home each week. Later, driven by his love of football, he left the Navy to return to Wiley. Unfortunately, the scholarship was no longer available. Determined to continue building a future, Willie rejoined the military—this time in the United States Air Force. He passed the radar examination and eventually became an Air Traffic Controller and Instructor.

In 1960, while in the military, Willie met and married the love of his life, Sarah Payton. The two shared nearly 65 years of marriage and an unbreakable bond rooted in love, laughter, and family. After completing his military service, Willie continued his education at Loyola University. He later joined American Airlines, where he worked for more than 30 years—a career that provided stability, adventure, and meaningful travel experiences with loved ones.

Ever the athlete, Willie became an avid golfer during his time in the military and continued playing the sport for the rest of his life. His enthusiasm for the game inspired his wife Sarah, who took up golf and became an accomplished golfer in her own right.

Willie was a proud member of the Historic Antioch Missionary Baptist Church in downtown Houston, Texas, where he worshipped faithfully. Before relocating to Houston from North Chicago, Illinois, he was a member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Known for his quick wit and gift of gab, he could light up a room with stories, jokes, and unforgettable one-liners. Though he often called himself a “Jack of all Trades, Master of None,” to his family, he was the master of love, loyalty, and laughter. He also proudly served as a Korean War combat veteran and received several military honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Occupation Medal with Europe Clasp, United Nations Medal, and Korean Service Medal with One Star.

Willie was preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother, Charles.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sarah Payton Haggerty; three loving daughters: Karen, Jacqueline, and Cherise (Darrell); and one cherished granddaughter, Bianca. He is fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law Mary Batts, Olevia Payton, Florita Fairley, and Augustine Payton; and brother-in-law Edward Briggs. Willie is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends, including Charles, who shares a meaningful bond with the family.