Willie Lee Pollard-Gregory

Our beloved mother, Willie Lee, entered her eternal rest on May 21, 2020. A native of Gary, Indiana, she resided at 2634 Adams Street and in the Miller district for over 80 years before relocating to California to be closer to her children. A graduate of Roosevelt High School (class of 1945) and Wilberforce State College (class of 1949). She was a member of Delta Sigma Theta.

Willie Lee retired from Calumet Township Trustee office, having served as a compassionate social worker. She loved shopping and was passionate about purses and accessories--a fashionista of her own making. She often carried an extra pair of shoes or second purse in case a wardrobe adjustment was needed. Although cooking was not her forte, she enjoyed gardening and interior design. Her sophisticated taste and style were evident in the enthusiasm she showed in the many make overs of our home. One year, she worked the graveyard shift to make extra money for a kitchen remodel. In addition to home decorating, Willie Lee ran a household filled with love, humor, and an appreciation for African American culture, theatre, and art.

Willie Lee was gregarious, vivacious, and dedicated to family. In 2000, she wed Caser W. Gregory, who proceeded her in death in March 2019. Many were abundantly blessed by her time on earth, including: daughters, Wanda Pollard and Dianna Sterling of Apple Valley, CA; sons, Darryl Lackey of Tucson AZ, Darrick Lackey of Palm Springs, CA, and William Pollard of Seattle WA; grandchildren, Andrew Pollard, Jasmine Pollard, Jeremy Pollard, Dana Sterling, Dominique Sterling, Danielle Sterling, and Dana Lackey; and, five great grandchildren. She is mourned by in-laws, Danny Sterling (Victorville CA), Kayana Lackey, Dr. Alden Reimonenq (Palm Springs, CA), and Mary Ann Pollard (Gary, IN).

Willie Lee will be laid to rest at Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, CA.

Condolences can be sent to Dianna Sterling, 12929 1st Avenue, Victorville, CA 92392.

A memorial service will be scheduled for a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.desertviewcares.com for the Pollard-Gregory family.