- Date Of Birth: October 1, 1928
- Date Of Death: April 27, 2013
- State: Colorado
Willie Joyce Stafford was born on October 1, 1928, in Dolthan, Alabama to her parents, William Simpson and Eva Douglas Simpson. She was the ninth child born in the family. She was raised surrounded by her brothers, Charlie, Benjamin, Ezra, John Henry, William, and her sisters, Eva and Annie Lee. Being the last born in the family, she was spoiled and a “mamma and papa’s little girl.” She was sweet and soft spoken. She always had a listening ear for others. Willie received her formal education in Dolthan. She graduated from Dolthan High School in 1946. While in school, she was a member of the girl’s basketball team as well as the track team. She often talked about the awards and trophies she received while playing sports. On February 14, 1950, Willie united in holy matrimony to Robert Lewis Stafford in Denver, Colorado. They first met when they both lived in Alabama. To this union, Curtis, Verlina, Bruce, Billy, Sabrina, Theresa, and Robert, Jr. were born. She was a wife and mother whose pride and joy was found in the care and nurture of her family. She is remembered as being soft spoken but her words were honored by her family with respect. Robert preceded her in death in 2001. Willie’s sixteen grandchildren were an additional source of joy and pride in her life. They affectionately called her “Big Gram” and fondly remember her as being soft spoken, but always giving them good advice. She always told them about her life and experiences and to “treat people the same way that they want to be treated.” She was later blessed to have thirty-one great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, who remember her cooking and spending quality time with each of them. By profession, Willie was employed by the Denver Public Schools. She worked in the cafeteria in both East High School and Cole Elementary Schools. She was a hard worker, who was often called the “best cook in town.
