On June 4, 1938, in Whitfield, Alabama, Daniel and Lucretia (Merriweather) Junior were blessed with the birth of their only son, Willie Edward Junior. At an early age, Willie and his family moved to Elyria Ohio.
Educated by school, church, and family in Elyria, OH; Willie encountered diverse experiences. In his youth, he attended with his family, Second Baptist Church. While in high school, Willie met the love of his life, Vernell Kimble. On August 25, 1965, they were joined in holy matrimony; and they have enjoyed 57 years of togetherness.
He was an avid basketball and baseball player while in high school. He graduated with the Elyria High School Class of 1956; and faithfully came back to Elyria, OH to attend his class reunions. Willie had the honor of coaching an all-Black girls' softball team in Elyria, OH, where he led them to several championships; his community involvement with the youth allowed Willie to gain great respect and recognition as a leader in his Elyria OH community.
In 1981, Willie moved to Scottsdale, AZ, to accept employment with The Boeing Company. He later worked for Northrop Grumman, previously known as Orbital Sciences Corporation; a 27-year career in Arizona-based aerospace industries.
He was an avid golfer and met many friends. He returned to Elyria every summer to visit his family and to join his long-time friends for golfing events. Willie continued his community involvement in Mesa, coaching boys' baseball teams and consistently working with Democratic Party.
In 1982 Willie became a member of Progressive Baptist Church in Mesa Arizona. In 1990 he joined Canaan Baptist, currently known as The Word Church; where Pastor Sherman Fort Presides
Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Lucretia Junior, and his sisters, Maggie D. Blakely, Lucy Bell, and Mildred Jean Junior. He is survived by his wife, Vernell Junior; his nieces, Dr. Carmen Blakely, Ms. Donna Blakely, and Dr. Terri Blakely; nephews Mr. Anthony Blakely Mr. Jonathan Blakely, and Mr. Andre Blakely
A visitation for Willie will be held Friday, June 16, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at The Word Church, 931 S. Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204. A funeral service will occur Friday, June 16, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 931 S. Stapley Drive, Mesa, AZ 85204. A graveside service will occur Friday, June 16, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, 400 South Power Road, Mesa, AZ 85206.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mariposagardens.com for the Junior family.
