Mr. Willie Crumpler

Willie Dillon Curtis Crumpler, Sr. “Dee” peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on June 23, 2023, in Fayetteville, NC. Born on December 7, 1942, to the late Roy Mitchell Johnson and late Isia Crumpler Johnson in Autryville, NC; Dee was the 2nd of the couple’s 8 children. From an early age, Dee had a yearning for more and a drive that took him from home in his early 20s to live briefly in Newark, NJ where he worked as a cook in addition to being a cab driver. Dee eventually settled in Detroit, MI which would become his home for close to 50 years where he met and married the love of his life, Alice; had a son, secured a beautiful home for his family and worked diligently for Daimler Chrysler Motors until his retirement. Dee greatly enjoyed travel. He and his family traveled most of the continental United States in addition to Canada and Mexico. Dee was quick to find humor in situations, loved animals, enjoyed cooking for others and had a generous heart. Never one to paint himself as a saint, Dee acknowledged his shortcomings and shared wisdom learned from his life experiences. Dee’s sister, Issie often talked about how as a teenager, Dee worked in the tobacco fields and various other jobs for local farmers while she was in school and arrived at her school in time with enough money earned to buy her a carton of milk because she would otherwise have nothing for lunch. Times were often hard, but Dee embraced the role of being a big brother in a large family and contributing to that family. Affectionately referred to as “the Tiger” by his nieces and nephews for his grit and vitality; Dee was known on occasion to say; “I don’t have to read about it; I lived it.” With regards to using his energies, gifts and abilities; he left the tank empty. Dee, his wife and late son were members of St. James Missionary Baptist Church in Detroit, MI. Upon his family’s move back to his roots of Autryville, NC; Dee joined Union Hill Baptist Church where he greatly enjoyed the spiritual enrichment, Christian fellowship and sang in the men’s choir. Preceding him in death are his parents; his beloved son, Willie “Bill” Crumpler, Jr; brothers, Velton Ray Crumpler, James Oliver Crumpler and sisters, Doretha Autry, Wanda Johnson Izzard and Alma Marie Johnson. Cherishing his memories are his loving wife of 55 years, Alice Sharp Crumpler; devoted siblings; Elwood Johnson and Issie Carter. Also honoring his memory is a host of nieces and nephews with stories to re-tell and laugh over. Great nieces and nephews along with extended family, in-laws in Texas and dear friends. Special acknowledgement to nephew, Rodney Johnson, who Dee loved like a son and niece April White. Both provided much assistance, companionship and support to Dee’s final months. We will all stand before the Almighty one day and give an account. Dee prepared himself and made peace with this world and sought the Kingdom beyond. During his hospice care in his final months; Dee told family members that he had no hatred or bad feelings towards any man and that he was at peace. In the words of 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.”

Mr. Willie Crumpler

December 7, 1942 - June 23, 2023