Willie James Lemon Sr.

Willie James Lemon Sr. was born on February 24, 1929, to the late Roosevelt Lemon and Eula Mae Toomer. He was the firstborn of eighteen siblings. In 1940, the family moved to Cleveland, Ohio, from Cordele, Crisp County, Georgia, and Willie attended the Cleveland Public Schools.

From an early age, Willie had confessed his faith in Jesus Christ. His first Holy Matrimony was to Lois Brent, and in this union, they were blessed with two children, Lavell and Willie, Jr. Although he would marry three more times, he had no other children from these unions.

Fondly known as James, he was a loving father, husband, brother, relative and caring friend. Well-known for his free-giving spirit, friendliness, humor, and contagious laughter, he left a memorable impression on many people.

He lived his life full of adventures, and he enjoyed traveling, fishing, and Corvette’s. He enjoyed the relationships he formed and shared a special love and care for his granddaughter, LaShell, and his niece, Annette, whom he would introduce to many as his daughter.

Willie was gainfully employed all his adult life until retirement. He worked numerous skillful jobs, often twice a day. For the past nine years, he worked for Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

On May 6, 2024, Willie peacefully fell asleep, until that glorious day when the Lord returns. He leaves to cherish his loving memories, George, Kenneth and Robert Carlton, Inez Martin, Clare McDonald, Gwendolyn Carlton, Eileen Wilson, and Angel Carlton. He is preceded by his parents; sons, Lavell and Willie, Jr.; brothers, Roosevelt, Eugene, and Boris Lemon, Leroy, Wilbert, and Maurice Carlton and his sisters, Mildred Grant, Lucinda Lemon, and Mary Fitzpatrick. He also leaves a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Family and friends are welcomed on SATURDAY, MAY 18, 2024, AT 2 PM FOR HOMEGOING SERVICES AT SLONE & CO. LIFE CELEBRATION CENTER, 3556 WEST 130TH STREET, CLEVELAND, OHIO 44111.