Deacon Willie McCormick, Jr., affectionately known as "Papi" and "Papa," 83, departed this earthly life Thursday evening, October 14, 2021.  He was born on November 1, 1937, to Maudie Lee Bryant and Willie McCormick, Sr.  In addition to his mother and father, he was preceded in death by his devoted wife Mary McCormick; and four siblings, Wesley McCormick, Geraldine McCormick-Hughes, Vivian Jackson, and Eddie Hawkins.

Willie resided in Ocala, FL, from birth until he moved to Winston-Salem, NC, at a young age.  He is a former employee of R. J. Reynolds Archer and The Budd Group, where he met the love of life, Mary.  He was a long-standing member of The Fellowship Church, formerly known as Uncompromising Word Fellowship, where he served faithfully as a Deacon until his failing health.  Willie loved watching cowboy movies, doing crossword puzzles, traveling, and dining out at nice restaurants.  Willie's most joyous moments were spent caring for his step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren alongside Mary, whom he lovingly called "BaeBae."

He leaves to cherish his memories four stepchildren, Maria Padmore (Ragnar) of Charlotte, NC, Rev. Donna Maree of the home, Melinda Mouzzon (Lawrence) of Raleigh, NC, Teddy Westley Petree, Jr. (Heather) of Winston-Salem, NC; one brother, Curtis James Hawkins of Longwood, FL; four sisters, Annie Hawkins-Brooks (Kenneth) Beverly Hills, FL, Emma Jean Hawkins of Ocala, FL, Cheryl Lynn Hawkins of Ocala, FL, and Dorothy Elaine Hawkins of Longwood, FL; eight step-grandchildren; seven-step great-grandchildren; 14 nieces, nine nephews - one of whom was very special to him, Dwayne Hughes (Sandra), 45 great-nieces and nephews combined.  Also, he was blessed to have a special son and daughter, Anthony Kinard (Leslie), and two godchildren Jaylen and Trey Kinard.

A viewing will be held from 1 PM to 5 PM on Friday, October 22, 2021, at Russell Funeral Home.  A private service will be held later with family and friends, Minister Malcolm Lewis officiating.  Interment will be at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.