Willie B. Parham, Sr., of Rockford, Illinois departed this earthly life February 28, 2025. He was born June 9, 1931 in Holly Spring, Arkansas the son of Otis and Roberta Parham. Willie lived in Rockford since 1953 coming from Bearden, Arkansas. He married the former Eleven Lilly, December 10, 1954, she preceded him in death. Willie was employed as a machinist by National Lock before their closing and was self-employed by Running WB Parham and Sons Cleanup and Haul. He was a member of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, serving as a faithful Usher 69 years.  He was also a member of the Rockford Freeport Usher Council. Willie was a former baseball coach at Northwest Community Center from 1968– 1974 where he also helped with Bingo. Willie volunteered at Christian Union Full Gospel Church Pantry Ministry. He attended school in Arkansas.

Willie leaves to cherish many loving memories, his two daughters, Elaine Parham and Yolanda Murray; three sons, Billy (Lola) Parham, Willie B. Parham Jr., and Henry (Brenda) Lindsey; 15 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; four sisters, Gloria Brown, Pearlene (Lamar) Lambert, Zelma Hegwood and Gertrude Lilly; and brother, Troy Parham; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was predeceased by his parents; wife, Eleven Parham; son, Odell Newton; and grand daughter Courtney Lindsey; two sisters; and five brothers.

Services will be held  11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church 3000 Rural St. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home 200 N. Johnston Ave.