Willie Earl Little Sr.

Willie Earl Little Sr. was born on March 22, 1935 to Alice Richards and Julius Little in Vaughan Mississippi. He resided there until he joined the Marine Corps in 1955.Willie served several tours of duty during the Vietnam War and was a recipient of the Purple Heart. He served his country proudly until retiring in 1976 after 21 years of service. Upon leaving the Marine Corps he was employed by the United States Postal Service for 14 years. Even after retiring Willie continued to be an active member of the NALC Union and served as a legislative liaison.

His mother was a leader in the state of Mississippi’s NAACP which inspired him to take an active role in the organization and become a lifelong member. Willie held many offices within the North San Diego County NAACP and was voted Man of the Year in 1995. In addition he was presented with their Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

He was a man of service: Marines, Postal, NAACP, North County Retired Military Association, and whatever else needed to be done to ensure people received fair and equal treatment. He loved politics and twice attended the National Democratic Convention as a delegate. Above all he believed in education and would work to support anyone trying to better educate themselves.

Willie was a devoted fan of the Oakland Raiders who never wavered in his support for his team whether it was their glory days or if they finished last in the league. He often traveled to Oakland California to attend Raider/Charger games with his close friend Ralph Eason who is a loyal Charger fan. He would frequently say “That’s my team win, lose or tie”. He also loved the music of James Brown with his favorite song being “I Feel Good”.

Willie is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years Mahalia, son Willie Little Jr, daughter Andrea, and sister Martha. He was preceded in death by his son Ramond, brothers James, Charles, Johnny and sisters Catherine and Mary Alice. He leaves behind a host of extended family and friends to celebrate his life and cherish his memory.