Willie James Sargent III

Rev. Willie James Sargent III, lovingly known as “Bubbie” to his family, was born on October 29, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Willie James and Martha Reese Sargent. He was the second of eight children and grew up in a home where faith and family were deeply intertwined, shaping a life devoted to service, love, and commitment.

As the son of a pastor, his walk with Christ began early and became the steady anchor of his life. He attended A.H. Parker High School in Birmingham, Alabama, where he marched in the band and discovered a lifelong love of music, later carrying that passion into adulthood as a drummer in and outside of church, and even on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He continued his education at Miles College before moving to Los Angeles, where he studied at Pasadena City College.

He proudly served in the United States Army as a radio-teletype operator, working at the center of battlefield communications and ensuring the steady flow of vital information. His service was marked by precision, discipline, and pride. He rose to the rank of sergeant, becoming Sgt. Sargent—a title that felt less like chance and more like destiny.

On April 21, 1970, he married the love of his life, Harriette Arletta Wood. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and presence. Their three children—Che Iisha, William James IV, and Arletta Joy—knew their father as a man who showed up. Whether at air shows, carnivals, museums, or the Rose Bowl Parade year after year, he made memories with his family intentionally. Even the simplest outings, what he fondly called “bumping around,” became moments of connection and joy.

Willie and Harriette joined Second Baptist Church, where they quickly became pillars of the congregation. From teaching Sunday School to leading prayer gatherings, they served with open hearts and willing hands. Following in his father’s footsteps, Willie was called into deeper ministry, serving as Deacon, then Minister, and ultimately Pastor. He later led Bethesda Baptist Church in Irvine, where his leadership reached beyond the pulpit. He guided anyone open to his counsel, offering wisdom with patience and conviction, modeling a life of faith that left a lasting imprint. Willie was never hesitant to share the gospel, whether in the sanctuary or in everyday conversation, believing that faith was meant to be lived out loud.

Even in retirement, stillness was never quite his way. He continued to gather people, most notably through his monthly “Ice Cream Socials,” an extension of his ministry through Bethesda Baptist Church. There, fellowship, laughter, prayer, and celebration brought the community together. He never met a stranger, and conversation came easily—often unfolding in long, colorful stories that drew people in. In quieter moments, he enjoyed football, jazz, a meal at Olive Garden, and a slice of lemon meringue pie. In his later years, he devoted himself to caring for Harriette with unwavering tenderness, honoring his vows with quiet strength and faithfulness. Just as deeply, he cherished time with his grandchildren, surrounding them with steady love.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Harriette; his children Che and her husband Erick, James and his wife Amberia, and Joy and her husband Theo; his grandchildren Joseph, Jordan, and Sean; his siblings Patricia, Susan, Terry, and Marsha; and a wide circle of nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.

From humble beginnings to a life of enduring impact, Rev. Willie James Sargent III leaves behind a legacy that surpasses what can be measured. The man who would often say things were “off the page” has, in his own life, written a story nothing short of that.

A viewing will be held at Second Baptist Church, 4300 Westminster Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92703, US, on May 6, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at the same location from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, with repast to follow directly after service in the Fellowship Hall.

A committal service will take place at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, US, on May 7, 2026, from 11:15 am to 11:30 am.