Joe Willie Bonslater was born on October 6, 1948, in Vaughn, MS, to Joseph Bonslater (deceased) and Ethel Davis-Bonslater (deceased).

He loved to fish & hunt. He also loved to paint cars.

He was married to Dolneicer Crayton-Bonslater, which preceded him in death. They have a daughter: Terrtianna J. Bonslater.

He also has two kids by Ex-wife Beatrice Vanarsdale: Joe Willie Bonslater, Jr. (Otesa King-Bonslater) and Melissa Bonslater-Keyes (Chris Keyes).

He was one of seventeen (17) children: Williams, James, Eddie, Sherman, Joseph, Jr., Charlie, Robert, Cardell, Maxine, Lillie (all preceded him in death), Ethelrene, Sylvester (Rosie), Elaine, Velma, Herman, and Alma. He had one Aunt Ida Lee.

He leaves behind six Grandchildren: Jalen, Lexus, Joe Willie, III, Tara, Tamara, Donte’; six Great-grandchildren; also, a host of Nieces, Nephews, Cousin s, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 29, 2025 at Affordable-Durant location, with burial immediately following at Union Cemetery in Pickens.

Visitation will be held between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025 at Affordable-Durant location.