Willie Clarence "Larry" Metts Jr.

Beloved father, husband, and friend, Willie C. Metts, Jr. was born to the late Clarence and Vivian Virginia Metts on July 2, 1951. He was called home on September 7, 2023. Preceding him in death were his parents, his wife of 46 years, and three brothers: Richard, Willie Clinton, and Gregory Jerome.

Willie accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and became a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church in Ellenwood, Georgia, where he sang in the choir. His educational journey began at County Line Elementary in Ellenwood, Georgia, leading him to Southwest Dekalb High School, where he was a proud member of the class of 1969.

In 1970, Willie Clarence and Beverly Jean Walker of Rex, Georgia united in matrimony and were blessed with three wonderful children: Ramon T., Deatrice K., and Shannon J. Willie's love for music led him to serve as the musician for Sylvester Baptist Church. He also sang in his family choir, The Jackson Gospel Movement. Willie and Beverly enjoyed traveling together and attended many COOLJC convocations.

Professionally, Willie's work ethic was displayed at General Tire and later at Rick Stubbs Painting Company. In 1989, he showcased his entrepreneurial spirit by starting Willie Metts Quality Painting and Decorating, LLC, a painting contracting company, which contributed to subdivisions like Country Club of the South, St. Marlow, and St. Ives Communities. His work allowed him to travel extensively throughout the United States.

A man of profound faith, Willie's spiritual journey deepened in 1989 when he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and became a devoted member of Refuge Temple COOLJC. There, he served as a deacon and led the Brotherhood Choir with passion and grace. He enjoyed fishing, spending time with family, and having a great time.

Willie's memory will be cherished by his children, son, Ramon T. Metts of Ellenwood, Georgia, and daughters Deatrice Angeletta of Hampton, Georgia, and Shannon J. Thomas (Larry) of Ellenwood, Georgia. His legacy also thrives in his grandchildren: Rashanna, Kiera, James, Keyni, Miracle, Jordan, Victoria, and Caleb, and great-grandchildren: Kanan, Ma’loni, Maison, Ma’sir, Malayshia, and Sergio. In addition to CleTina and Jessie.

Surviving Willie are his sister, Bertha Willis (Roger) of Conyers, Georgia, brothers Micheal Metts (Tammie) of Dublin, and Andrew Tumlin (Tonya) of Stockbride, Georgia; his brothers-in-law Steven Walker (Barbara) of Decatur, Georgia, Lizon Walker (Shonda) of Stockbridge, Georgia, Daniel Walker of McDonough, Georgia; as well as his sisters-in-law: Anita Metts of Decatur, Georgia and Angela Metts of McDonough, Georgia.

His memory is also cherished by his uncle, Nathaniel Jackson of Ellenwood, Georgia, special friends, and a myriad of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.

Visitation for Larry will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023 from 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Horis A. Ward - Fairview Chapel, 376 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, Georgia 30281. A Celebration of Life for Willie Clarence "Larry" Metts, Jr. will occur on Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 12:00 Noon at Refuge Temple Ministries, Inc., 105 Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard, Southwest, Atlanta, Georgia. Interment will follow in at South-View Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.horisawardfairviewchapel.com for the Metts family.