Mr. Willie James Fields

FIELDS, Mr. Willie James - Age 88, passed away Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at Mission Point Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Family hour 10:00 AM Saturday, December 14, 2024 at Bethel United Methodist Church, 1309 N. Ballenger Hwy. Family and friends will assemble at the church 10:00 AM Saturday. Mr. Fields will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd., and may be viewed from 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM Friday, with family present from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM to receive friends. Mr. Willie James Fields, affectionately known as “Sonny,” passed away peacefully on November 27, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service to his family, community, and country. Born on July 8, 1936, in Florence, Alabama, he was the oldest and only son of James and Hattie Mae Fields. Sonny lived a full and meaningful life, touching the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him. Sonny grew up in Florence, Alabama, where he cultivated a strong sense of family and community that shaped his life. He attended high school at Burrell Slater School before joining the United States Navy, where he honorably served his country with pride and dedication. While in the Navy, Sonny discovered a passion for boxing and developed a lifelong love for the sport. His athleticism also extended to baseball, where he played in intermural leagues. After his military service, Sonny attended Wenonah Technical Institute in Bessemer, Alabama, where he studied television and radio repair. He later became the owner of Fields’s Television and Radio Repair shop in Florence, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and technical expertise. In 1965, he transitioned to Flint, Michigan, where he built a remarkable career with General Motors, retiring in 2000. His leadership and passion for workers' rights led him to serve as an elected officer for the United Auto Workers (UAW) Local #659, tirelessly advocating for his fellow employees. Sonny was deeply committed to his faith and community. He was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church in Flint, Michigan. He proudly served as a Prince Hall Mason and Shriner. His service in these esteemed organizations reflected his dedication to uplifting others and his commitment to brotherhood, service, and integrity. Sonny was a man of many passions. A man of refined taste and an undeniable sense of style, Sonny had a lifelong love for cars, particularly Corvettes and Cadillacs, which he appreciated and took immense pride in. His love for automobiles reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and elegance. He was a proud fan of both Michigan State University and the University of Alabama, never missing an opportunity to cheer for his favorite teams. His love for music was equally profound, with blues holding a special place in his heart. Over the years, Sonny befriended several notable blues artists, forging connections that reflected his warm, personable nature and appreciation for the art form. Known for his debonair demeanor, infectious smile, hearty laugh, and love of spirited debate, Sonny was cherished by all who knew him. He never met a stranger and brought warmth, wisdom, and humor to every interaction. A pillar of his family, he demonstrated his devotion, which was evident in how he supported and nurtured them, always providing guidance and boundless love. Whether advocating for others, sharing stories from his life, having intentional but light-hearted deliberations, or simply spending time with loved ones, Sonny leaves behind treasured memories from the meaningful connections he fostered throughout his life. Sonny was blessed with a loving family. He was first married to Ms. Mary Jeanette Cunningham, with whom he had three beautiful children. He later married Ms. Betty Thomas, gaining another son through their union. For many years, Sonny was also lovingly supported and cared for by his lifelong friend, Ms. Ernestine Lattimore, whose solid presence and loyalty brought immense happiness and contentment to his life. Sonny is survived by a host of surviving family members who will continue to honor his memory and carry forward his enduring legacy: daughter, Bonita F. Fields of Flint, MI; four sons, Michael A. Fields of Warner Robins, GA; Terrence D. Fields of Anniston, AL; Darel (Rachel) Thomas of Orlando, FL; and Maurice (Janiece) Lee of Flint, MI; 14 grandchildren, Dr. Minina (Michael) Johnson of Vail, AZ; Denardo D. Fields of Flint, MI; Michelle (Erick) Fields-Simmons of McDonough, GA; Tierra (Bradley) Ball of Huntsville, AL; Rhajah Weathers of Flint, MI; Myranda Fields of Warner Robins, GA; Taylor Fields of Anniston, AL; Teral Thomas, Simone (Travis) McGhee; Allana Thomas; Maurice Lee, Jr.; Shanae Lee; Nakalius Hudson; and Keyona Viverette; 18 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Patricia D. Fields and Glenda Freeman; 2 nieces, Vonda Moore and Vetia Searcy; nephew, Darius Freeman; 2 aunts, Betty Jean Smith and Barbara June Jones; daughter-in-law, Ms. Tujuaner R. Fields; a host of cousins and a long list of friends. Sonny was preceded in death by his parent, James and Hattie Mae Fields, and sister, Stella Searcy, with whom he is now reunited in eternal rest.

Mr. Willie James Fields

July 8, 1936 - November 27, 2024