Willie Edward Ealy was born on October 8, 1937, on Dothan, Alabama to his parents, Ulace Ealy and Ollie Norward Ealy. He was the first of eight children born in the family. He was raised surrounded by his brother, Willie R. and his sisters, Gladys, Mamie, Barbara, Fannie, Linda, and Teresa. Growing up, Willie enjoyed card games with his mother. Willie received his formal education in Dothan. He furthered his education by attending college in New York City. On January 19, 1966, he earned his certification to become a Licensed Practical Nurse. On June 1, 1955, Willie enlisted in the United States Army. He served during the Vietnam War. He earned a Bronze Star Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal, an Army Commendation just to name a few. He served with honor and distinction and was honorably discharged on May 31, 1986, at the rank of a Master Sergeant (E8). He served his country for over thirty years. Willie was the proud father of four beautiful children, Myla, Tammy and twins, Patrick and Derrick. He was later blessed with nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren who all were an additional source of joy and pride in his life. They fondly remember him as always saying no when asked to give them money but would be the first to lend a helping hand when needed. The grandchildren fondly called him Papa Willie and remember him cooking for them and all of them sitting and watching television together. After his retirement from the military, Willie became employed by Presbyterian St. Luke Hospital as an LPN in ICU. He was hard-working, dedicated and performed his duties with compassion and understanding. He loved his job and enjoyed working with his fellow co-workers and the patients placed in his charge. A man of faith and belief in the Lord, Willie worshipped at The Connection Church in Aurora. He loved the fellowship shared with his church family and wisdom and knowledge he gained as he studied the Bible. Willie was a fun loving man who enjoyed life and those he encircled. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, bowling, playing bingo and sharing with his fellow service members at TREA Chapter 3. He also enjoyed his "visits to the Hills," His closest friend, Velester Payne will miss the camaraderie they shared together and the fact that he was a true and trusted friend. He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known this kind and wonderful man. To know Willie was to love him. Willie E. Ealy departed this life on November 11, 2015, in Aurora, Colorado. Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his loss include his wife, Mildred H. Ealy of Aurora; 2 sons, Patrick A. Ealy and Derrick B. Ealy, both of Denver; 2 daughters, Myla R. Jones of Dallas, TX and Tammy D. Ealy of Atlanta, GA; his step daughters, Juletta Grisby and Shantell Shipp of Aurora; 5 sisters, Barbara A. Geary, Mamie Rogers, Linda, Ealy, Teresa Norwood and Fannie Marsha Ealy all of Buffalo, NY; 9 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and many friends.
Funeral Home: Pipkin Braswell Funerals and Cremation - 2050 Uinta Street, Denver, Colorado
Visitation: 11/21/2015 at 9:00 AM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Service: 11/21/2015 at 10:00 AM - Pipkin Braswell Chapel of Peace - 3370 Ivy Street, Denver, CO
Cemetery: 11/23/2015 at 10:15:00 AM - Fort Logan National Cemetery - 4400 W. Kenyon Ave., Denver, CO