Willie Mae Coleman

Willie Mae was born February 7, 1941, in Carlisle, MS to the late Willie Coleman and Mae Pearl Davis. She was given the nickname "Toot" as a child. She received her primary education in Carlisle. After moving to Knoxville as a teen, she attended Beardsley Junior High School, where she played basketball. However, later completing her GED. Willie Mae accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age.

Some of her greatest joys were serving the Lord, helping others, and loving children. As a single mother, she often said, "If I could have had more children, I would have a hundred," then laughed and said, "the Lord only gave me one," Wilma; whom she cherished very much. However, showing her love of helping others and children; she cared for many children of single mothers in her neighborhood, while they worked and attended school. She kept the children overnight and would get them dressed in the morning for school and walk them to the school bus.

Her community service broaden as she volunteered with CAC to transport groceries to Knoxville residents as she picked up her own groceries.

She was a faithful and dedicated member of the Word of God Ministry Church (WGMC). However prior to joining WGMC. Willie Mae served in various ministries at Canaan Baptist Church in Christ; and the Peace & Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church; such as the mission, food ministry, choir, and finance committee; exemplifying the words of one of her favorite songs, "This Little Light of Mine."

The Lord continued to bless her with her charismatic and dedicated spirit at WGMC for her love for children and the desire to help others. She was a Mother of the church; and was better known as Grandma to all the kids. She would discipline them in her sweet loving manner (give them the "eye") during worship service when they disobeyed, and the parents were very appreciative. She was a choir member for many years and served on the Treasury committee until her health declined. She was also known as the "candy lady" to all those who came. The impact Willie Mae made on her family, friends, church, and community will forever be cherished.

Preceded in death by her parents; grandparents: John and Mary Davis; sisters: Mattie Reece and Linda Jean Howell; brothers: Thomas J. Davis, Jr. and Rickey Davis; son-in-law, John E. Williams.

Survived by a devoted daughter, Wilma Coleman Williams; devoted brother, Robert Earl Davis; brother Ronnie Davis; sisters: Flossie Smith, Jackson, MS; and Lillian Dirl; a very loving sister-aunt, Rosella Davis; dedicated caregiver, Barretta Burnett, and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends to include the Canaan Baptist Church of Christ, Peace and Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church and Word of God Ministry Church families.

Thank You From the Family: The family would like to thank all that helped to love and care for our dear loved one during her time with us. Some special mentioned angels are: Ms. Barretta Burnett, Addus HomeCare; Covenant Hospice; Knox Metro Ambulance; Knoxville Firefighters First Responders; Dora Street Neighbors, and Fort Sanders Medical Staff.