Final salute to Moss Point resident and 104-year-old veteran Willie James Smith
We are offering our final salute to the oldest World War II veteran in Moss Point, Willie James Smith passed away just a few hours shy of his 105th birthday.
Affectionally known as ‘Daddy Willie’, Smith served in the United States Army from August 9th 1941 to November 9th, 1945.
Upon returning home, Smith finished his education and cared for his family. His legacy has reached far and wide as he has been celebrated by the City of Moss Point, the World War II Museum in New Orleans, the African American Military History Museum in Hattiesburg, and by the City of Pascagoula.
The City of Moss Point lowered their flags to half-staff in honor of the veteran and life-long friend. Smith has touched the lives of those who knew him.
Friends and family share with us their final message to Willie Smith. Moss Point Mayor Billy Knight said, “Thank you for being in this community and being available to people like me to learn from. As I said, if you want to be a good man, then watch Daddy Willie and follow his example.”
Anne’ McMillion, who preserves African American history, said, “Thank you for allowing me in your person space. Thank you for trusting me to make sure that your name was shown and that your contribution was well known for the City of Moss Point. I humbly thank you.”
Willie Smith’s nephew J.B. Carter said, “He was one of the first strong black men that I saw. He stayed home, took care of his family, loved his wife and children. I was teasing his daughter today. His wife died about 30 years ago and I said she’s going to ask ‘what took you so long?’”
Here’s the information for Willie Smith’s funeral arraignments. His services will be February 10th, beginning at 10 a.m. They will take place at his church First Christian Church in Moss Point.
These services are open to the public so anyone is welcome to go and pay their respects.
