Willie C. Johnson

Willie was born May 26, 1951, in Lexington, MS, the son of Lee Henry and Viola (Pepper) Johnson, Sr. He married Debula Zoe “Debbie” Merritt August 30, 1973, and she preceded him in death March 17, 2011. He was also preceded in death by his parents, four sisters; Annie Lois Johnson, Eflora Brown, Minnie Hinton and Shirley Jean Johnson Cook, and a brother, Jesse Johnson.

Willie retired as a Heat and Frost Insulator, working with the State of Illinois. He was a member of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers. He was also a member of West Side Christian Church in Springfield.

Willie was a member of various bowling leagues and was a Pittsburg Steelers Fan. He was always ready to lend a hand to family, friends and neighbors.

Surviving are his siblings: Christine (husband James Earl Gaston) Henderson of Chicago, Lee Henry Johnson II of Lexington, MS, Barbara (husband Jeremiah Pittford) Johnson of Chicago, Danny (wife Doristine) Johnson Sr., of Lexington, MS and Kenneth (fiancé Rosa) Johnson Sr. of Victorville, CA, two aunts; Mussett Epps of Lexington, MS and Flora Montgomery of Springfield. There are several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St. where family and friends will gather for visitation on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 pm. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at West Side Christian Church 2850 Cider Mill Rd. Springfield, IL at 10:30 am with Pastor Gary Winkleman officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Those who wish may direct memorial contributions to St. Jude Children Hospital or West Side Christian Church.