Willie James Harville

Mr. Willie James Harville's Obituary Program Link

Mr. Willie James Harville, affectionately known as "Yerk" to his friends and family, peacefully passed away on February 28, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on February 26, 1941, in Selma, Alabama, Willie was a cherished son to the late Parker Harville, Sr. and Mable Lee Harville. He was the beloved patriarch of a large family, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

Willie was a graduate of Keith High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a strong sense of community. His faith was an integral part of his life, and he joined the Elbethel Missionary Baptist Church.  He was a man who believed in hard work and the value of a job well done, traits that served him well in his professional journey. Willie retired from RL Zeigler's before embarking on a successful entrepreneurial path, owning and operating two mechanic shops as a self-employed business owner. His work ethic and dedication to his craft were an inspiration to many.

In addition to his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his siblings, Betty Jean (Henry) Moore, Donetta Harville-Martin, Johnny Harville, Thomas Harville, and Parker Harville, Jr. He leaves behind a legacy through his children: sons Willie James "Ricky" Harville, Derrick Devon Harville, Dewayne (Shereen) Harville, LaBarry Jermaine Harville, Rodney James Blythe, Taveres (Faith) James Harville, and Parker Harville, as well as daughters Renee Evelyn Harville, Edrena Cottrell Harville, Tamika Dynell Harville, Cynethia Shante Harville, and Kellye Patrice Harville. Willie's life was further enriched by the joy of his 23 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Mary Elizabeth (Willie) Rose and Earnestine Harville, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Willie's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He was an avid gardener, taking great pride in his ability to cultivate beauty and sustenance from the earth. His gardens served as a place of tranquility and reflection, not just for him, but for all who were welcomed into that peaceful space. Willie's love for the earth was a testament to his nurturing spirit and his desire to share the fruits of his labor with others.

A special thank you and appreciation to Earnestine Harville, Jhonnie Mae Murray, Sandra Chambers, Dewan Chambers, and Gloria Peoples.

Funeral services have been scheduled for Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 10:00AM from the Elbethel Missionary Baptist Church where Pastor Trenton Pressley serves as pastor; the Revered Ulysses Woodyard will be officiating.  Burial will follow in the Summerfield Community Cemetery with Aubrey Larkin’s Lewis Brothers Funeral Home serving with excellence through professional service.

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