Willie E. Givens

She was born January 24, 1933, in Kemper County, Mississippi, a daughter of the late Joseph Elwood Anderson and Elnora Adams Anderson.

Willie lived for more than 25 years in Southaven where she was an active member of Heritage Church. She loved her church family and was proud to fill her “special seat” at every service.

Willie was a pioneer among women in the food industry, owning and managing several restaurants before women were business leaders. She operated eateries in Meridian, Philadelphia and Demopolis, Alabama, and was the manager of the Popeyes in Horn Lake for 30 years. Willie worked until her retirement at the age of 85.

In her free time she enjoyed caring for her beloved Pomeranian, Peanut, collecting dolls, dishes, and Avon glassware, and antique shopping with her friends.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her daughter, Evelyn Anita Trayweek; and sisters, Eva Mae Hughes, and Louise McNeamer.

Survivors include son, Joseph Carl Givens and wife Becky; grandchildren, Casey Givens and wife Nikki, Nikki Maness and husband Christian, Justin Trayweek, and Jason Trayweek; great-granddaughter, Lottie Ruth Givens; several nieces and nephews including her special “daughter/niece”, Marion Davis and her husband Robert, who cared for Willie for many years; and her dear friend, Pam Tanner and husband Glen.

Memorial services in Southaven will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Heritage Church, P.O. Box 1211, Southaven, MS 38671.