Essie Mae Frye‑Washington of Rockford, affectionately known as “Grandma Essie” and “Tugg,” stepped gracefully from earth into heaven on September 30, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and boundless love. Born on February 28, 1935, in Merigold, Mississippi, Essie was the cherished daughter and third child of Sid and Essie Mae Frye.

In 1964, Essie made Rockford her home after moving from Chicago, Illinois. On October 27, 1956, she married the love of her life, Willie Washington Jr., a union filled with devotion and partnership until his passing.

Essie lived a life rooted in service—to her family, her church, and her community. A dedicated member of St. Paul Church of God in Christ, she served faithfully in many roles: Missionary, Usher Board, Pastors Aid, Women’s Choir, Sunday School Teacher, and the beloved cook for the St. Paul Academy. Her hands prepared meals, but her heart nourished souls. During tax season, she also lent her skills to H&R Block, helping others with patience and care.

Gifted with creativity and grace, Essie enjoyed sewing, crocheting, modeling, and teaching financial budgeting classes. Though her demeanor was gentle and quiet, her love for people and for the Lord spoke loudly. Her wisdom was steady, God‑sent, and often exactly what someone needed to hear. She extended her compassion beyond her own community by sponsoring a child through Feed the Children for many years, forming a heartfelt bond with her sponsor daughter, Nakitia, who wrote to her faithfully throughout her graduating from high school, college and starting a family of her own.

Essie valued education and proudly earned her High School Diploma in May 1974 through the Rockford Adult Evening High School Program—an accomplishment that reflected her determination and belief in lifelong growth.

Essie leaves to cherish her beautiful memory:

Her son, Undra (Connie) Washington, three daughters: Renata (Samuel) Eleby, ReDrenna Washington and Undrea (Anthony) Buckley, seven grandchildren: Rashad (Sharaya) Eleby, Kia Crain, Karisma Crain, Lorenzo Washington, JaVonte (Robin) Allen, Anitra Allen and Aaron (Bayli) Buckley, four great‑grandchildren: Kayliah Campbell, Holland Eleby, Nyier‑Rashad Eleby, and Iyanna Washington; God-children: Fernando Tyus, Randall Marshall and Latrice Morris Wynn, two brothers: Sid (Rose) Frye and Curtis (Patricia) Frye; and one sister: Victoria (Arthur) Harris.A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who loved her so very dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Willie Washington Jr.; and her sisters: Loretha Hairston, Lorene Stigler, Lucinda Tigner, and Cynthia Dudley.

Essie’s life was a quiet testimony of kindness, humility, and faith. She touched lives not with loud words, but with gentle actions—steady hands, warm smiles, and a heart that made room for everyone. Her legacy will continue through the generations she nurtured, the lives she uplifted, and the love she gave so freely.

Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at St. Paul Church of God In Christ, 1001 Bishop Washington Avenue, Rockford, Illinois 61102. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.