Willie Span

Our Beloved Willie Span was born February 27, 1936 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late James H. Span and Nellie Layfield (Span). He was preceded in death by his brother James Span and his granddaughter Shelby Ann Kellum.

Willie was a graduate of West Field High School, Birmingham Alabama class of 1953. He went on to serve 22 years in the United States Air Force, after retirement from the Air Force, Willie later retired again as a Civil servant. He received his Associates degree and taught classes at Miami Jacobs College, Dayton Ohio.

Willie met and fell in love with Ruby Spence from Lockhart Texas. They courted from May 1956 and married December 15, 1956. Ruby referred to Willie as her "Hero". They were married 56 years.

Willie was a talented Auto body repairman and enjoyed barbequing. He was a loving & caring husband, and a true example of what a father should be, he was always there for his family. He was a big man with an even bigger heart.
Willie was a faithful member of Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church where he served as Deacon, sang in the choir, ministered on the usher board and was over the "BTU" for many years. Willie was awarded with the status of Deacon Emeritus in 2012. He was known for his powerful prayers and soul stirring songs like "I Know I've Been Changed" and "Come On In The Room".

Willie is survived by his devoted wife Ruby and 4 children: Willie J. (Jina) Span; Cynthia (Markus) Jones, Kimither (Dennis) Manjang and Rosalind (James) Maupins; 6 grandchildren: Dennis Manjang, Jr. "D.J.", Jamal Manjang, Lydia Jones, Madalyn Jones, Jocelyn Maupins and Marcus Maupins; sisters: Naomi Span , Cleveland and Maggie Jackson (Leo), Detroit, sisters-in-law: Ella Joe Spence and Ann Robinson from Texas , a host of nieces, nephews, cousins , Bussey family Indianapolis, other dear relatives and friends, including special friends at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church. Embraced grandchildren of the family "T-Red" and "little Willie".