Willie Nerle Vickers

Willie Nerle Vickers (Lil' Willie), 70, of Placida went to be with the Lord on September 27, 2018. He found success and happiness throughout his life as the owner/operator of several companies including a stucco and an excavation business. Additionally, as a longtime commercial fisherman, he opened a fish market in East Englewood. For decades Nerle was a fixture in the waters surrounding the community and land he cherished and fought to protect.

He was born December 14, 1947 to Willie Vickers and Mary Shiver Vickers of Placida. For his birth, his parents travelled by train from Placida to the nearest hospital in Arcadia. Ten days later, the new family returned to their beloved Placida, and Nerle began a most adventurous life in the only town he would ever call home.

His family's roots run deep on the Placida coast, beginning with his Great Uncle Oren Vickers' arrival from Georgia in the late 1800's. Oren went on to open the first fishery on Boca Grande. Like his father and uncles, Willie lived for the Gulf, and these waters fueled his great passion for storytelling and local history. His many friends can attest to his enthusiasm for sharing these stories with everyone...whether they had asked for a story or not.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and leaves behind his loving and patient wife of 48 years, Paige Moser Vickers, son James Willie Vickers (JW) and daughter Lorraine Vickers. He is also survived by a wonderfully large extended family, including mother-in-law Fay Dixon Moser, many brothers and sisters-in-law, and enough nieces and nephews to fill a shrimp boat. His best friend and constant companion was his Genie Boy.

Visitation will be held at Lemon Bay Funeral Home from 5:00-6:00 PM on Tuesday, October 2, with a service to immediately follow. On Wednesday, October 3, a burial service will be held at Lemon Bay Cemetery at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Suncoast Humane Society. Arrangements by Lemon Bay Funeral Home and Cremation Services. You may visit lemonbayfh.com to sign the guest book.