Lillie Bernice Willis' Obituary
Lillie B. Maxwell (Willis) was born on February 28, 1928 and Beatrice Maxwell, in the community of Maxwell Hills (Fall County) Texas. She is the fifth of eight children (five sisters and two brothers).
Lillie B. graduated from Booker T. Washington H.S. in Marlin Texas and continued her education in California. She received her A.A. in Business from Laney Colleges. She gave birth to four children: Rita L. Smith, LaVita N. Oliver, Patricia L. Willis, Glenn H. Willis- who preceded her in death. Lillie B. met Revered Harlton Willis of Waco, TX and they were married.
Lillie B. attended a revival in Texas where she was saved and filled with the Holy Ghost. In the early 1960’s, Lillie B. moved to Berkeley, CA with her family. She united with Faith Chapel C.O.G.I. under the leadership of Pastor C.J. Levias. She was a faithful church member and a devout steward of the Holy Bible.
Lillie B. was led by the Holy Ghost and became a member of Lily of the Valley, C.O.G.I. under the leadership of Pastor A.D. Willis.(Lily of the Valley Christian Center is now under the leadership A.L. Willis). During her tenure as a member she was: a choir member, Sunday School teacher, Vice-President of the Women’s department, Y.P.W.W. President, Missionary and taught the uncompromised word of God. She was also a mother on the mother’s board. She received several certificates and trophies under this ministry.
Lillie B. was blessed with many talents. She loved to sign, write songs and poetry. She was recognized for having excellent people skills and worked well with others.
She leaves to mourn: her children Rita L. Smith, LaVita N. Oliver, Patricia L. Willis; Minister Bill Oliver –former son –in-law; Elder Clarence & Margaret Maxwell; her sisters: Agnes King, Elnora & Charles Thompson, Emma and Ray Woodruff, Sr., Rosa Maxwell-sister-in-law (Lawrence Maxwell-who preceded her in death); god-sister: Mary Johnson; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
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