Willie Mae Brown Anthony

Willie Mae Brown Anthony born 11/11/1941 to Johnathan Brown and Eppie Dovine but raised by the late Reverend Robert L. and the late Eppie Smith in Trafford, Alabama. Willie Mae accepted Jesus Christ early in life and was baptized as well. She played basketball in high school and was an all-star player. Willie Mae graduated from high school and met Jerry Anthony. They were married in 1959 and to this union 4 children were born, all born in Alabama except for the last one. She was a good mother and fully supported her husband in his business endeavors. Willie Mae trained to be a nurse assistant and worked in the central supply department at Huron Rd Hospital. Most importantly, she also went to college and received an associate degree in early childhood education. Subsequently, she continued to help raise her grandchildren, as well as her great grandchildren. Initially they called her grandma, then “GG” became the name she was famous for with them and a lot of adults as well. She was always present and always had a smile. “Hollywood” was one of her nicknames because she dressed like a star and the younger generation was especially excited to see her—she was the fun auntie and cool friend. She had a sense of humor and a smile to go with her laughter. The many hats she wore mother, grandmother, great grandmother, God mother, sister, daughter, auntie, friend, and mother to so many others that she never birthed! Willia Mae, “Hollywood” received her wings on her birthday 11/11/2025! Jesus made a 360-degree circle of her life. This in and of itself is quite fascinating to me. The Bible teaches that the days of our years are threescore and ten—seventy years—and if by reason of strength, fourscore—eighty years (Psalm 90:10). Yet God blessed her with 84. Look at God! Won’t He do it? He surely did it. Praise His holy name, family, for He is worthy to praise. Let us celebrate her long, blessed life and her transition from this world to her eternal home in glory. Amen. Willia Mae leaves to cherish her memories, daughters: Cathy Anthony, Dr. Janis Anthony-Wade; son Robert L. Anthony. Her sister, Robbie Smith. 11 grandchildren: Emmanuel, Wesley, Shanna, Ramone, Latasha, Lorenzo, Rick, Patrice, Monique, Aleece, and Victor. 9 great grandchildren. Lifelong friend Barbara Beard and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Robert L. and Eppie Dovine Smith, her sisters: Earnestine, Evelyn, Eva, Rosetta, and Brenda. Brother: Robert Earl; grandsons: Tony D. Anthony, and Robert L. Anthony Jr.

Willie Mae Brown Anthony

November 11, 1941 - November 11, 2025