Willie Dee Jimerson Jr.

Born to Willie Dee Jimerson, Sr. and Viola Marie Coln Jimerson on October 6, 1931 in Dallas, TX, he was therefore a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan. He was predeceased by his parents as well as his sisters, Rose, Billie and Linda, and brother, Charles.

In 1951 he joined the U. S. Navy, serving aboard the USS Pittsburg. In 1953 he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia where he met, and on June 16, 1954, married the love of his life, Linda Anne Yoder. They were married for 67 years and raised three sons. Over the years, they shared their love and home with nearly 100 foster children, ages infant through 21 years of age.

Willie was a musician, singer and worship leader. He loved the outdoors and playing and coaching sports. He was a mentor and counselor to many. He was an expert woodcarver who sold a multitude of his creations and gifted many others to family and friends. He joyfully served the Lord as a member and elder of Rock Church in Virginia Beach for nearly 50 years. As a carpenter for most of his career he made furniture, built and restored homes and helped build bridges and larger structures. But most of all he built a family who loved and served God, their families, and others. His family was his treasure. All Willie’s sons, and most of his grandchildren are involved in ministry.

Left to treasure his memory and legacy are his beloved wife, Linda, his sons Wayne (Pam), Gary (Kathy) and Mike (Debbie); grandchildren Christopher (Elyssa), Daniel (Adrienne), Jonathan (Sonya), David (Heather), Jared, Kristin (Scott), Sarah (Chris), Mary and Alison; and great grandchildren, Gavin, Rebecca, Micah, Corbin, Jacob, Caleb, Addilyn, Connor, Peter, Thomas, Jordan, Levi, Judah, Madison, Lenorah, Everly, and Luke. He is also survived by his younger sister, Christine Jimerson Housholder of Washington State, and a host of in-laws, nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Monday, Dec. 20th from 6:00 to 8:00pm at Rosewood-Kellum funeral home at 631 N. Witchduck Road. They will also receive friends Tuesday, Dec. 21st at 1:00pm at Rock Church, 640 Kempsville Road, with a Celebration of Life service following at 2:00pm.