Willie "Sr." Edmonds

Willie Edmonds Sr., 87, of Mansfield passed away late Tuesday evening, January 23, 2018, at OhioHealth Riverside Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Born March 14, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, he was one of six children of the late Willie and Mercy (Bell) Edmonds.

Willie was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving in the Korean War and retired as a Storekeeper First Class after more than 20 years of service. A hard working man, he then went to work for General Motors and retired from there also. Willie was a wonderful father who loved taking care of everyone. He was there to guide and advise them and spending time with them brought him immense joy. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting. Willie was very friendly and enjoyed talking to everyone and made many lasting friendships over the years.

He is survived by his son, Willie Edmonds Jr.; five daughters, Denise Jackson, Debra (James) Conley, Barbara Simpson, Doris Maddox and Betty Quates; many beloved grandchildren; and many treasured great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Alma P. Edmonds; a son, Ronald Edmonds; a grandson, Eddie "Sparky" Billard; four brothers; and a sister.

The family will receive friends from 12:00-1:00 p.m. Thursday, February 1, 2018, at the Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 98 S. Diamond St., Mansfield. A Homegoing celebration of Willie's life will follow in the funeral home at 1:00 p.m. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Alma, in Mansfield Cemetery.