Willie Haywood Lovelady, 77, of Elkhart, passed away on Wednesday, July 6, 2022 at Valley View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Willie was born on June 7, 1945 in Sikeston, MO to the late, Plez Lovelady Sr., and Edna (Richardson) Lovelady. He is married to Dorothy (Walker) Robinson in 2012. Willie is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Dorothy Jackson and brothers, Urban Lovelady and Jolly Ray Lovelady.

Willie is survived by his wife, Dorothy of Elkhart; brother, Plez Lovelace, Jr; sister, Barbara Johnson, children, Willie Haywood Lovelady (Latisha Jamison), Wendolyn Lovelady (Vincent Davison), Nicole Lovelady; stepdaughters, Teresa Robinson, Diana Robinson, Areth Robinson and Carlor Jackson Carroll; grandchildren, Keon, Marshawn, Sonshell, Danisha, Sr. Willie, Jaquion, Damonte, Dawn, Damontray and Takiya Lovelady, Jacquice Gantt, Sarah Coleman and Valencia Davidson; step grandchild, Zai'Vionna; 29 great grandchildren and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Willie graduated from Elkhart High School Class of 1965. He was an over the road truck driver for most of his adult life. Willie was a member and played the organ (and occasional singer) for Southside Baptist Church in Elkhart. He enjoyed watching old westerns and dreamt of fulfilling his dreams of being a cowboy. Willie had a great sense of humor and his jokes would crack everyone up! He was a hardworking and generous man, who would give the shirt of his back for anybody.

But to Willie, family was everything. From cooking southern food to eating it, being around his family and friends brought so much joy to him.

Per the family's request, Willie will be cremated.

For those that wish to send a condolence, share a memory or order flowers may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com