Sybil M. Willingham

Ms. Sybil M. Willingham, daughter of the late Cordie Morris and Thomas Smith, was born on September 16, 1934 in Greenville, South Carolina. Sybil was the oldest of eight children: Robert, Norman, Natricia, Annie, Roy, Toy and Vera all who are predeceased except for Robert and Toy. She graduated from Sterling High School in Greenville, South Carolina.

After moving to New York City, she met the love of her life, Chester Willingham, Jr. Soon after, they were united in holy matrimony in November, of 1956 and from that union they were blessed with seven beautiful children.

In the early 70’s, she began working at Tremont Monetary Day Care Center in the Bronx where she later retired after years of working. Sybil decided to further her education at CUNY in Manhattan and graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood. She was an active member of Family Baptist Church. Sybil was a devoted hard working and extremely loving mother and an amazing cook. She was most famous for her homemade sweet potatoes pies. She made sure you had a meal and never left her home with an empty stomach.

She loved to be surrounded by family as well as friends. Her home was the only place to be every holiday or event. You were expected to eat, listen to music, look through old photos, reminisce about the good old days and get your drink on. Sybil took pride in telling her family and younger generation about the old days and her growing up experiences. As a result of her generous spirit and pleasant personality, she was loved by many.

Her life was as beautiful as the flowers she loved. Life did not cheat her out of anything. She fought different illnesses and always came out on top. After 85 glorious long years, on June 27th, 2020 at 8:10 pm at Albert Einstein Hospital in the Bronx, New York, she quietly departed this life. God decided it was time to stop fighting and come home. Her influence on everyone she encountered will forever be in the hearts of those who knew her. To know her is to love her.

Her daughter, Sheryl Willingham predeceased her.

Her beautiful life will forever be cherished in the lives of her children, Michael Willingham (Denise); Darryl Willingham (Patricia); Donald Willingham (Cindy); Ronald; Deborah Willingham (Eugene); twelve grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; brothers, Robert and Toy; a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and home health aides.

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