Willie Colston Young

It is with deep sadness that the family of Willie Colston Young announces his passing on November 8, 2025, at the age of 75.

Willie was born on August 14, 1950, in Coy, Alabama, to the late Zack Young and Susie Lee Thompson (Young). He later moved to Pensacola, Florida, where he spent his childhood and young adult years. In his later years, Willie relocated to Houston, Texas, where he began his professional career in Securities Regulation Administration with Exxon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Zack and Susie Lee Young, and his siblings Julius T. Young, Melvin Young, Wilmer L. Young, Carlie B. Fairley, and Stephanie Renee Young.

Willie’s legacy lives on through his loving children: Sandra Thomas (Pensacola, FL), Chalessa White (Frederick, MD), Willie (Stacey) Young (Pace, FL), and Sherika Hinton (Montclair, VA); his beloved grandchildren Brandon Young, Darcean Edwards, Shayla Young, Malachi Hinton, Ariella Young, and Madison Hinton; and his great-grandson, Elias Cáceres.

He is also survived by his siblings Carolyn J. (Thomas) Champion (New York), Mary E. Young (Alabama), Valerie (John) Finklea (Alabama), and Jack Young (Florida), as well as his only surviving aunt, Delores Forman of New York.

Willie leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

In keeping with his wishes, the family will not hold a formal funeral service. We lovingly honor his request and find peace in knowing that, in his final moments, Willie was surrounded by most of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and dear friends who had become family.

Willie will be deeply missed and will forever be remembered by all who knew him.