Willie Edward Youmans was the 6th child born to the late Thomas and Iramae Youmans on November 7th 1939 in Allendale, South Carolina. He grew up along side six brothers and four sisters, Herbert, Revamae (deceased), Tom Jr. (deceased), Orrell, Olamae (deceased), Earnest, Mary Ella (deceased), Bessie, Mary Ruth, Edgar (deceased) and Matthew. He was educated in his early years at Rouse School and then later on at St. Mark while attending Trinity AME Church as a young boy, all located in Allendale County.

In the mid 1950’s Willie left South Carolina for the promise of New York and as a curious teenager, quickly adjusted to life in the big city. Willie spent some time in New Jersey and Queens before eventually calling the Bronx his permanent home. Along the way, Willie met and married Ruby Eaton and from this union, six children were born; Floyd “Sha” of New York, Charlene, Stella, and Tracey all of Baltimore, James “Van” of Florida and Maurice “Reese” of Austin, TX. In later years, Willie had a seventh daughter, Cassandra Kidd who also resides in New York. Willie loved all of his children dearly and adored his grandchildren.

Willie’s great work ethic was developed as a young teenager while picking cotton for his family on the family farm in Allendale and it served him well for many years as a hard working Porter for the Royal Prudential Company in New York City. He held this position for more than ten years and after several similar jobs decided to retire early. In his spare time, he loved shooting pool and won his last tournament in December of 2008. Spending time with family, playing cards, remembering old times also gave him tremendous peace.

Willie will be remembered in so many ways; he was witty and always knew the right thing to say. He had a great sense of humor and we relied on his ability to make us laugh. He was a man of few words but reassuring wisdom. He always maintained his country charm; was street smart, strong, humble, independent, and carried his pain quietly. He had a heart big enough to love and forgive everyone. He lived life to the fullest and never allowed anything to steal his joy. He was a giant among us and a family patriarch. He will be tremendously missed and his absence leaves an incredible void in all of our lives.

He leaves to rejoice in his memory seven children, Floyd, Charlene, Stella, Tracey, Van, Reese, and Cassandra, eighteen grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren, four brothers, three sisters, two sisters-in-law, and a host of other relatives and friends.

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