Winifred May Wiley

Winifred May Wiley, 96, “The English Granny,” a beautiful and loving mother, went to be with the Lord on December 11, 2017. Winifred was born on June 13, 1921, at Highcliffe Stables in Bournemouth, England, to the late Horace and Winifred Brewer. She was predeceased by her loving husband and soul mate of 59 years, Harold Cecil Wiley. The romance between Winifred and Harold began during WWII while Harold was stationed in France. They married in Christchurch, England, on December 18, 1945. After which Winifred traveled 3000 miles across the stormy Atlantic Ocean on a US Army transport vessel, the USAT George W. Goethals, to join Harold, who was already in America. Winifred spoke of seeing the Statute of Liberty for the first time when the ship landed in New York. She spoke of walking down busy Main Street, with all of the shops, taverns, movie theaters, and sailors whistling at the girls as they walked by. Thereafter, Harold and Winifred resided in Norfolk, VA, for the duration of their marriage. To this union was born two daughters, Diana and Denise, whom she adored and lovingly cared for while maintaining a warm and nurturing home. Winifred’s passions were cooking, sewing, crafts and gardening. Winifred also loved cheese burgers and a beer every now and then. She had a love for animals including her English Budgie Parakeet, “Pretty Boy” and Scottish Terrier “Jock”. Winifred will always be remembered by her daughters for her caring, blunt and compassionate advice. They mourn her passing, but thank God for the gift of her long life and the times they shared together. The memory of her smile will remain in their hearts forever. Winifred leaves to cherish her memory daughters, Diana Swain and husband Danny of Virginia Beach and Denise Morris of Norfolk; grandchildren, Shelley Swain Berry and husband Todd of Virginia Beach, Shannon Morris Coulson and husband John of Norfolk, Matthew, Zachary and Nicole Swain of Virginia Beach and great-grandchildren Caden Teves of Massachusetts, Gavin, Channing and Scarlett Berry of Virginia Beach, and soon to be born Claire Coulson of Norfolk. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for the love, kindness and concern shown by Winifred’s neighbors to her and Harold over the years. Jim and Adeline Campbell, her neighbors of more than 50 years,raised their children together and shared many fond memories. Winifred and Adeline kept in touch weekly, even after Adeline relocated. Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Norfolk, 312 Kempsville Road, Norfolk, VA., with graveside services thereafter at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, 6309 E Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk, VA. In lieu of flowers please make desired contributions to: American Cancer Society.

“Proverbs27:9 The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.”