Mother Willie Mae Grimes, born Willie Mae Washington on June 10, 1938, in Harriston, Mississippi, departed this life peacefully on August 10, 2026, in Fayette, Mississippi, at the age of 88. Her journey, enriched by faith, family, and service, leaves a legacy cherished deeply by all who knew her.

From her earliest years in Harriston, Willie Mae’s life reflected the values instilled by her parents, the late Willie Washington and Lillie Washington-Bell. She grew up surrounded by the warmth and strength of a loving family, the lessons of which guided her throughout her life.

Willie Mae was educated in the Jefferson County School District, where she laid the foundation for the wisdom, compassion, and integrity that defined her. Through her education, she developed a resilient spirit and a commitment to the uplift of her community. Then, as a young lady, Willie Mae moved to New Orleans, LA, seeking a better life and job opportunities. She worked for Jefferson Parish School Board for many years until she retired.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie Washington and Lillie Washington-Bell. She was the oldest living of all of her siblings and was respected and loved as such. She was preceded in death by daughter Katra Mae Jenkins; five brothers, Abraham Washington, Charles Washington, Monroe Stewart, Clarence Kilroy Bell, Jr., Willie Alvin Washington, Roosevelt Stewart; four sisters, Mary Ellen Stewart, Mary Walker, Estella Maddox, Ruby Eakins; daughter-in-law Verna Humphreys-Grimes.

Known affectionately as “Maw-Maw,” Willie Mae was a beacon of nurturing love and unwavering support to her family. She leaves to cherish her memories: Two daughters, Elizabeth Bolling and Trenese Cockerham both of Houston, Tx; one son, Ellis Grimes, Jr. of Fayette, MS; Five sisters, Artemease Edwards, Dr. Eunice Rush, Rachel Andrus, Patricia Allen all of LaPlace, LA, Lula (Larry) Johnson of Cleveland, MS; Three brothers, Floyd (Sandra) Washington and Bishop Calvin (LaSandra) Blake both of Houston, TX, Henry "Jody" Bell of Harriston, MS; Grandchildren, Kiara (Tavric), Anthony (LeKeyshea), Kailah, Keri (Perry), Vernecia, Tramelle Elisa, Varely, Quinton, and India; 14 great-grandchildren; 5 great great-grandchildren; one God-daughter, Cynthia Carter. A countless number of nieces, nephews, and cousins, and other relatives too numerous to name.

Mother Willie Mae Grimes’ life was one centered on family, faith, and community. Her gentle spirit and steadfast love offered comfort and strength to all who sought her counsel, and her devotion formed the backbone of the close-knit family she nurtured. Her legacy continues in the values and memories she leaves behind, evident in the lives of her children, siblings, and all who had the honor of knowing her.

The family will receive friends during visitation at Barnes Chapel & Mortuary Service, 5087 Hwy 61 South, Port Gibson, MS 39150, on Friday, August 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. A funeral service in celebration of her life will be held at Greenleaf M.B. Church, 3215 Corban Road, Harriston, MS 39081, on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Elbert Eakins will be officiating.

Mother Willie Mae Grimes touched many with her gentle words and generous heart. Though she will be deeply missed, her light endures in the hearts of those she loved and inspired.