Willie J. Strong "Coot"

Willie J. Strong (Coot) was born September 19, 1947 to Louise (Joe) Winston in Greenwood, Mississippi. He passed away Sunday, June 27, 2021 at the age of 73 years.

After honorable discharge from the United States Army, Willie resided in Saginaw and was employed at Grey Iron Foundry from where he later retired. In his younger days, Willie loved to play baseball and was in many leagues. He loved sports and stay involved by coaching many basketball teams. Willie also loved to cook and was known for making a good pot of greens. He loved to call people and say "c'mon over, I am cooking some greens".

Willie was one of the most loving and caring people you would want to meet. If you were around him, he was going to make sure you had a good time. He touched the heart of a lot of people. Willie was as strong as his last name. He held on until he was tired. No more pain and suffering. Daddy you will truly be missed by a lot of people. Rest peacefully Dad, you are forever in our hearts.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory four daughters and one son, Jacqueline (Anthony) Roberts, Margaret (Jerry) Cobb, Larisa Riley, Cassandra Gilbert, and Wykem Strong; eleven grandchildren; twenty great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; many other loved ones and friends, including two special friends Carla Moten and Robert Washington.

He was preceded in death by a special cousin, Johnny McGee.

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The family would like to express special thanks to all of our family and friends for all the support you have shown our family, Ivan E. Phillips, and the Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel.