Willie James Wakefield

Willie James (Wake) Wakefield passed away on September 11, 2022, and will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and his Community. “Wake” was born in Edison, Georgia to Margret Ferguson Scott on March 12, 1948. He was raised by his Aunt Ruby Lee and Uncle Solon Dinkins in Sorrento, Florida. Except for his college years, “Wake” called Lake County home. He excelled at Bates Avenue High School playing football and competing in track. Wake was also elected president of Student Government during his senior year, a year memorialized as the year schools became desegregated (1968). He went on to attend one of the most prestigious Black colleges in the Nation, Tuskegee Institute in Tuskegee, Alabama. There he was voted President of Student Government Association (SGA) his senior year, served as an Ombudsman between students and the administration, and was recognized with many awards for his achievements. He graduated with both a Bachelor of Philosophy, and later a Master’s in Education. Regina Sapp, who knew “Wake” since high school, likened him to President Jimmy Carter. She stated, “Wake was much like him. He never boasted about his power and leadership, but always humbled himself in the assignments that God had laid upon him.” Wake’s accomplishments and service to his community were as unmatched as his love for Jesus. He was a self-taught- electrician, plumber, roofer, general contractor, tax preparer, and more. He selflessly read important documents and mail for people in the community who needed assistance and taught financial literacy. His achievements did not stop there. He raised a family and did whatever he could to make sure there was always a roof over their heads and food on the table. Wake was predeceased by his loving wife, Jacquelyn Goosby Wakefield. He is survived by his daughters, Shaundra Wakefield, Dr. Arcolia Wakefield, and Antoinette Wakefield; his grandchildren: James Wakefield, Nikolas Gibson, Faith Wakefield, his sisters Deborah “Cookie” Lee and Pat, his God sister Dr. Dorcas McCoy, and his great-nephew Julian Wakefield. He is also survived by his close cousin Reginald (Helen) Taylor and best friend Reginald Forbes. One could write pages upon pages about “Wake” and a life well spent. Suffice it to say he will be missed by all who knew him. This humble servant is surely blessed by God’s grace and welcomed in heaven by his angels.

Tributes

Willie James Wakefield

March 12, 1948 - September 11, 2022