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“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)
Mr. Willie Ray Polite, Sr., a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, was born on October 1, 1944, in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, to the late Lovely Paul Polite and Alifair Cury. He entered into eternal rest on Friday, October 31, 2025, surrounded by love and peace.
At an early age, Willie accepted Christ and joined Macedonia A.M.E. Church, where his faith in God was nurtured and sustained throughout his life. He was educated in the G.W. Carver High School system and known for his strong work ethic and kind spirit.
Willie was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Mrs. Mary Ann Polite, who preceded him in death. Their union was blessed with six wonderful children, who were the joy of his life. Together, they built a legacy grounded in love, faith, and family.
He was also preceded in death by his beloved grandchildren, Reginald Jermaine Polite and Celeste Lynette Polite, as well as all of his brothers and sisters.
Those who remain to cherish his precious memory include his loving children: Matthew (Rebecca) Polite, Rickey (Lisa) Polite, Corey (Lesley) Polite, and Eric (Marilyn) Polite, all of Orangeburg, South Carolina; Willie (Shanique) Polite of Neeses, South Carolina; and Yolanda (Erick) of Cope, South Carolina.
He also leaves behind an adopted son, Vinson Jowers of Columbia, South Carolina; one sister-in-law, Annie Bell Hair of Pocono, Pennsylvania; one brother-in-law, Mr. Albert Hair of New Britain, Connecticut; twenty-one grandchildren, thirty great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
A special word of gratitude is extended to Ms. Brenda Polite of Cordova, South Carolina, for her love and care.
Willie was a hardworking and humble man, a true legend in his community. He found joy in the simple things of life: drag racing, wrestling, Pepsi, and his family. His laughter, wisdom, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” (II Corinthians 5:8)
He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. Willie Roy Polite, Sr., please visit our floral store.