Sunset
L I F E
R E F L E C T I O N S
Earnest Charles Willingham was born on August 25, 1952 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to Ora Lee Harris and Preston Willingham, Sr. Both preceded him in death. At a young age his mother and the rest of the family, relocated to Chicago, Illinois. Earnest attended William G. Beale elementary school and graduated in 1966; and Englewood High School and graduated in 1970. While in high school, Earnest developed an appreciation for earning his own money and was excited to work at his very first job after school at Walgreens. While working at walgreens he received several promotions and was promoted to Assistant Manager. His grandfather, Henry Bailey taught him the value of saving his earnings and helped Earnest to get his first car, during his senior year of high school. Earnest also loved playing basketball and was a proud member of the Englewood Varsity basketball team, he affectionately became known to his friends as Slim Goodie. At Englewood High School, he also met his high school sweetheart Cynthia Childs, and the two were married in 1970, of this union two children were born, Deonca and Tiwanna. Earnest was no stranger to hard work and quickly learned the value of a well-earned dollar. In his early days he worked for the Chicago Public Schools, Xerox Corporation and in 1980 he began his career as a proud member of the City of Chicago, Fire Department. Earnest saved many lives while being a member of the Fire Department family. After 29 years of dedicated service in 2009 he retired. The Fire Department provided a source of income for Earnest to afford a comfortable lifestyle. He purchased his own home and several other properties, he loved stylish cars and fancy clothes and shoes. One of his favorite quotes, “you work hard, you can play hard.” He truly lived up to that statement. Earnest loved his family and would often boast about the accomplishments of his children and family. He loved being a father of six (6), Deonca, Tiwanna, Anthony, Paschan, Earnest Dupree and his daughter Marlena who preceded him in death. There was nothing he would not do for his children and his grandchildren. He only wanted the best for them and was present in any and every milestone and/or accomplishment in their lives as well as the entire family. He set a great example of hardwork and commitment for his children as well as his grandchildren. He was a role model to many for his strong family values and strong work ethic. Many friends and family members he took under his wing to get them off the streets and helped to show them how to do more positive things with their lives.
O F
In 2010, he married his long time friend, Gaynell and they purchased a home in Tennessee. He commuted back and forth from Chicago to Tennessee. Even though the two divorced, they remained good friends. Earnest also loved to travel especially to Las Vegas with one of his favorite cousins, Martina. He purchased a timeshare in Las Vegas and they would travel there yearly. In March, 2021 he called his sister Joyce and niece Lakesha and informed them that he wanted to dedicate his life to Christ. His sister Joyce and niece Lakesha both immediately scheduled him to be baptized at Family Christian Center. Where he and his neice both were baptized together. He knew that it was never too late to commit his life to Christ. Earnest will always be remembered for his ability to connect with people, he could talk to absolutely anyone, he never met a stranger. His memory was nearly photographic. Earnest could recall every family member’s birthday, anniversary and could even recite the pounds they weighed at birth. He was our family historian, if you took a moment to talk with him, you were sure to learn something new, as he eagerly shared detailed accounts of his incredible family stories. Earnest made sure he attended every family function and often the first one to arrive. He truly loved being with family. Earnest was preceded in death by his grandparents, Henry and Addie Bell Bailey, his parents, Ora Lee Harris and Preston Willingham, Sr., his aunts Henrietta Bailey, Lillie Clark and Ruby Bailey; his brother Preston Willingham, Jr., his daughter, Marlena, his grandson Ricking and his great granddaughter Kearii. On September 16, 2021 Earnest departed this life, he leaves to cherish his loving memory, his children, Deonca Hill (Emanuel), Tiwanna Willingham, Anthony Richardson (Aja), Paschan Dixon-Gooding (Darrol) and Earnest Durpree Willingham; twelve grandchildren: Jerrica, Cyntia, Demoyne, Rodney, Alexandria, Tyrone, Arayla, Rickita, Demauric, Kytrell, Aubri and Aevri and eight great grandchildren; three sisters; Joyce M. Rushing (Dwayne), Denise Harris and Phyllis Willingham, his stepmother Ollie Franklin; his devoted friend and caretaker Doris, his longtime friend Randy and one of his favorite cousins and travelling buddy Martina along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
“I’M FREE”
Don’t grieve for me for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me I took his hand when I heard him call, I turned my back and left it all I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work or play Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of day If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish for you the sunshine of tomorrow My life’s been full, I’ve savored much, Good friends, good times, my loved one’s touch If my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your heart, rejoice with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.
ORDER OF SERVICE Processional Facilitator Lynn Hicks Prayer Pastor Michael Miller The Lord’s Prayer Aubri L. Richardson and Aevri L. Richardson Musical Selection Kenyatta Gaines Reading of Obituary Alexandria L. Richardson Resolutions Delecta Davis Musical Selection Lydia Imani Tributes Please limit to 2 minutes Eulogy Pastor Michael Miller Final Viewing Recessional
T R I B U T E S
For my dad in heaven I hide my tears when I say your name, But the pain in my heart is still the same. Although I smile and seem carefree There is no one who Miss you more than Dee. - Love your daughter Deonca
I know we are all feeling a little bit sad That we’ve lost our Grandpa, our friend, and our dad. Together we have cried an ocean of tears As we feel so empty and hold many fears. But Grandpa would want us to know he’s in a good place And that he’s watching us all with a smile on his face, As we have made him so proud, as proud as can be That he has raised such a beautiful and special family. Thinking back now, I really must say I feel lucky and privileged to have known Grandpa to this day. For in my life, you have played a special part. The memories I will treasure and keep close to my heart. - Love your grandson Demauric
Heaven has received another angel, The night sky another star. Your life has become a loving memory. I know you will never be far. I know you are watching over me As my life goes on. I will treasure the memories I have of you. I can’t believe you’re gone. You were a loving, caring granddad. You were there for me a lot. You will always hold a place in my heart, A loving, treasured spot. - Love your granddaughter Jerrica
Well brother, dear brother, As you are laid to rest, I’m sad and pray for a tinge of happiness. But then I recall the bond we share, The memories of our mother’s love and care. Those memories are a healing balm. Those times we’ve shared will surely keep me calm! You see, Earnest, I carry you within my heart And so we’ll never really be apart. I feel your presence in the sunshine And even in the rain. You’re with me everywhere I go, And somehow that helps ease the pain. Deep down bro, I always knew, That God had plans, BIG PLANS for you. - Love your sister Joyce
It’s not easy as you get older watching your Loved ones Pass Away But Thanks Be to GOD through JESUS we have the gift of Eternal Life to Live with Him Forever one Day Earnest when we meet again I’ll recognize You instantly because You’ll be the one Talking at a Constant Pace Mannn you knew you could talk, if Communication was an Olympic Sport my Friend You’d definitely win that Race Your memories I will carry in my heart With Your picture in a frame I will miss you My Friend You were a part Of my life so farewell for now until we Meet again. - Love, Gaynell
PSALM 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Pallbearers Earnest D. Willingham Tyrone Lewis Rodney Crowder Jr. Dorian Rushing Alonzo Rushing Antawne Williams Honorary Pallbearers
Ricky Odom Rick Jackson William McGee Antonio Pryor Orlando Pryor Willie McCloud
Randy Bruce Willie Bowles Frank Davis Ontario Pryor Renno Hicks Dwayne Rushing
Interment Oak Hill Cemetery 12000 S. Kedzie Avenue Blue Island, IL 60406 Acknowledgement of Thanks The family of Earnest Willingham would like to express our appreciation for the cards, calls and other kind expressions of sympathy from friends and family.