Willie Lee Bagley

Mrs. Willie Lee Watson Bagley was born on August 20, 1933 in Chase City,Virginia. She was preceded in death by her husband,John A. Bagley,Jr.;her parents,William H. and Lizzie Mae Watson;and three siblings Pauline,Clayton,and Paul Watson. She departed her life peacefully on June 24, 2008 at her residence in Richmond, Virginia. Willie was affectionately known as Wilnette to many friends and loved ones.At an early age,Wilnette accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior and became an active member of the Union Baptist Church Choir of Chase City,Virginia.Wilnette was educated in the Mecklenburg County School System. She later relocated to Richmond,Virginia where she worked as an Elevator Hostess and Operator at the Hotel Richmond for years during segregation. Despite the challenges of the period,Wilnette was known for her energetic smile and God-given ability to encourage others.Wilnette was united in marriage to John A. Bagley,Jr. of South Hill,Virginia. Their union was blessed with three sons in whom Wilnette devoted her life to their upbringing and spiritual guidance. While the road was a challenge for Wilnette and the children ,her love and dedication undoubtedly proved that trusting in the Lord with all your heart does allow God to direct your path! All who knew Wilnette would attest to her undying and committed love for God and her children. Wilnette's children will always treasure her eloquent birthday solos,her preparation of full meals before each school day;her Christmas mornings filled with joy;her Sunday mornings of family fellowship;her austere warning to be in the house before the street lights came on;and her sincere and loving way always reminding them to be careful and depend on God! One of Wilnette's last earthly reminders to her children was"You would be suprised at what Jesus can do!" Wilnette was a sucessful and loving Christian mother,and a dear friend to many. She leaves to cherish and celebrate her life three sons,John A.III and Thomas E. Bagley of Richmond, VA.,and Carnell N. Bagley(Sherri) of Freeman,VA.;one granddaughter who she loved so dearly,Sherita Bagley;three sisters,Lela M. and Betty J. Watson,and Greta G. Evans,all of Richmond, VA.;two brothers,William H. Watson,Jr.(Sarah Jean) of Richmond, VA. and Harold L. Watson of Newark,NJ.;five additional sisters-in-law,Nadine Watson of Orange,NJ;Lucy Scott,Helen Hargrove,Lillian Mayo,and a special sister-in-law,Beulah Belle of Richmond, VA.;a brother-in-law,Thomas Bagley of Chesterfield,VA.;a faithful sister in Christ,Earnestine Fountain,and a host of nieces,nephews,cousins and friends.

Tributes

Willie Lee Bagley

August 20, 1933 - June 24, 2005