William Johnson Prince

William Johnson Prince was born January 8, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the only son of William Prince and Magdalena Gambrell. He was born a mere 3 weeks after their Holy Union (presided over by his mother’s father, Rev. Faith Gambrell). Billy would spend his childhood in Detroit. But as a teenager, he moved with his mother and little sister Carol to San Luis Obispo, California. This is where his Aunt Beulah Gambrell, his mother’s oldest sister lived and welcomed them. At the age of 15, he would lose his beautiful mother to illness.

In 1957, at the age of 18, Billy enlisted into the United States Marine Corps, where he would proudly serve for 2 decades. During his time, he received honors and badges for Pistol Sharpshooting, Rifle Sharpshooting, Good Conduct Medal, Letters of Appreciation, and a Meritorious Unit Commendation. Billy served as a combat soldier in Vietnam, doing tours in 1967 and 1968. However, before he was called to his tours, he escorted fallen Marine’s home to their families. It was in this capacity, that he met a young lady, Mamie Louise Bolden, in 1967. They would marry six months later, and go on to have 4 children – Roland, William Jr., Dietrk, and Angelica.

In late 1976, Billy would retire from the Marine Corps as a Staff Sergeant, and the Prince family would plant roots in beautiful Oceanside, California. Billy and Mamie were married for just under 20 years. They would go their separate ways in 1986. In 1977, Billy worked for the North County Transit District (NCTD). He was one of the early drivers for the fledgling Transit system when he joined, as it had only been in existence for a few years prior. In 1993, he retired from the NCTD, but continued to work in various civilian jobs for the military until he retired for good in 2007.

In 2000, Billy met a beautiful lady named Vessie, and they would marry in 2002. They were together until the very end. She proudly and lovingly served as his wife and partner, and later as his caregiver throughout the many health challenges they faced in his final years. In his final days, she made sure he was home, where he belonged; and he knew he was cared for properly and loved.

Billy loved Jesus, faithfully served God, and in 2004, Deacon Prince and his lovely wife Vessie joined New Birth Church, Oceanside, California under the leadership of Bishop Dr. Jeffrey Moore, after he had served for a period as a Deacon with Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church, Oceanside, CA., under the leadership of Pastor Leroy West and former choir member of the Second Missionary Baptist Church of Oceanside, CA., under the leadership of the Late Pastor W.W. Wright. His joy for his church has always been apparent through his love, meek temperament and giving spirit. As Senior Deacon and Chairman of the Deacon Ministry, his sage experience and unswerving devotion enabled him to help build a strong foundation at New Birth. As a Brotherhood member, his leadership experience helped mold the men of New Birth. Truly a man of God, Deacon Prince enjoyed mentoring young leaders and our youth. His heart-filled passion for the growth of our youth allowed him to work with the Bishop to establish, a college scholarship presented to our High School graduates pursuing entrance into college, which continues to this day.

Billy was a man who loved a good time. He loved his American automobiles. He loved nice things and worked hard to have them. He loved his soul food and could cook a mean pot of chitterlings, pig feet, ham hocks, pinto beans, and corn bread. He LOVED to look good and smell good. He lived his life on his terms.

William Johnson Prince, Sr., is survived by his beautiful wife Vessie; his children Roland (wife – Antoinette), William Jr (wife – Aubrey), Dietrk (wife – Lupe), and Angelica. Step-daughters Debra (husband – Danny) and Ida (husband – Terry). His only sister, Carol, preceded him in death, as well as his step-son, Willie. He also has an abundance of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who carry his name and legacy forward. He had great friends throughout his life.

We have great appreciation for Bishop Moore, who was both a spiritual beacon, and a trusted friend.

We release you into the arms of our Heavenly Father.