Willie Mae Campbell, a cherished matriarch, was born on March 21, 1919, to the late Celie Bigalow and Joe Roberts. Her life was a testament to grace, resilience, and unwavering love—a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
She received her education in the Brooks County School System and went on to build a life rooted in service and dedication. Willie Mae worked as a domestic worker, cook, and caregiver, roles she carried out with excellence and compassion. She was also a gifted seamstress, known for her skilled hands and creative spirit. In her quiet moments, she found joy in gardening and fishing—simple pleasures that reflected her peaceful and nurturing nature.
In 1950, she was united in holy matrimony to Willie Campbell, and together they built a strong foundation of love and family, raising seven children. Family was the heart of her world, and she poured into it with wisdom, strength, and devotion.
Willie Mae was a faithful and committed member of Bethel AME Church in Quitman, Georgia. She served diligently on the missionary board and the hospitality committee, exemplifying a servant’s heart until her health no longer permitted her to do so.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willie Campbell, and her sons, Wilbur Campbell, Wilbert Sears, and Johnny Sears.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories through her children: Apostle Dorothy Travis (Jarvis) of Quitman, GA; Gladys Dotson (Leon) of Quitman, GA; Oscar Campbell of Atlanta, GA; and her baby boy Reuben Campbell (Hannah) of Fayetteville, NC.
Willie Mae also embraced and loved her two adopted daughters, the late Phyllis Washington (Jerry) of North Augusta, SC, and Sonja Campbell (DC) of Quitman, GA. Her extended family includes two Goddaughters, Helen Clemons of New Jersey and Shirley Frazier of Quitman, GA.
Her legacy continues through her 15 grandchildren: Christy Campbell (Montclair, NJ), Tia Gibbs (Edward) of Orlando, FL, Evangela McQuay (Kevin) of Jacksonville, FL, Johnny Sears Jr. (Lisa) of Orlando, FL, LaToshia Brown of Quitman, GA, Katina Guides (Ellis) of Quitman, GA, Andrea Travis of Fayetteville, NC, Charon Minniefield of Riverdale, GA, Wilbert Sears Jr. of Tallahassee, FL, Erica Campbell of Atlanta, GA, Elaine Campbell of Atlanta, GA, Randi Sapp of Lithonia, GA, Charsee Marks of AL, and Damien Campbell of College Park, GA. She was also abundantly blessed to witness generations beyond, including great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and even great-great-great-grandchildren.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Martha Ware, her devoted caregiver and daughter in Christ, for her unwavering love and support. They also express sincere appreciation to the staff of the Quitman Presbyterian Home for the exceptional care and compassion shown during her residency.
We also thank all friends, coworkers, and loved ones for your prayers, visits, and comforting calls during this time of bereavement.
Willie Mae Campbell’s life was more than years lived—it was a legacy built. A legacy of love, faith, service, and strength that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
Funeral services were Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Spirit and True Worship Ministry in Quitman, Georgia with Apostle Dorothy Travis officiating. Burial followed at the North End Cemetery in Quitman. To access livestream of the service and share condolences with the family, we invite you to visit our website at stevensmcgheefuneralhome.com Stevens-McGhee Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.