Willie Lee Bohannon

Celebrating the Life of Willie Lee Bohannon

Willie was born on January 6, 1949, in Lambert, Mississippi, to Lee Thomas Bohannon and Doria Childs. In his early twenties, he moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he worked tirelessly at multiple jobs to support his growing family. In 2006, he relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan, to help his daughters care for their mother during her final years. Willie had a big heart and an even bigger personality.

Willie was a master in the kitchen, he was known for feeding just about everyone at Mt. Mercy Apartments, where he made his home. He loved music, loved to dance, and never missed a chance to enjoy life with his friends. A true early bird, Willie was often up at the crack of dawn—singing, whistling, and knocking on neighbors' doors—not asking, but telling them—to come gather under the gazebo where, as he said, “it all went down.” There, he’d be BBQing, laughing, drinking, and lighting up the place with his famous phrase: “Got Dammit, Got Dammit, Got Dammit!” In 2023, as Willie’s health began to decline and he could no longer join the outdoor gatherings, the fun didn’t stop—his neighbors brought the party to him, making sure he still felt the love and joy he had always given so freely.

Family meant everything to Willie. He cherished his visits back to Chicago, where he reconnected with his sisters, aunts, and cousins. He also had a thing for jewelry—so much so that he couldn’t resist swiping a piece or two from his son, Willie “Dalast Champagne” Bohannon

Willie gained his wings on May 27, 2025. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Zonita A. Champagne, special friend Virginia A. Lowery, sisters Dora B. Bohannon and Dorothy “Bay” Watkins, mother Doria Childs, and father Lee Bohannon.

Willie L. Bohannon leaves to cherish his Memories his daughters Wakanda Harris, Takala (Vertuis) Wall of Grand Rapids, MI, Dashe (Marcus) Hilson of Chicago, IL, Tanitra Lowery of Grand Rapids, MI and his son Willie L. Bahannon Jr. of Chicago, IL. His Grandchildren Nathan and Eddie Harris, Terrance and Tyronne Young, Danielle Hilson, Shakayla, Qu’Davion and Deonjai Lowery, Alexis, Aleyah and Alayah Vinyard. A legacy of Great grand kids. His beloved aunts: Bertha “Baby Sister” Collins and Joanne Jenkins, both of Chicago.Special friends Shawn Sandifer and Kathy Higgins. A host of nieces, nephews, family, and dear friends. Willie’s life was filled with joy, humor, and an unshakable spirit. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

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