Willie Lee Brown was born on March 21, 1952 in Darling, Mississippi to the union of J.C. Bolden and Rosie Lee Hall. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rosie Lee Hall and sisters, Maggie "Sandy" Brown and Tiney Marie Hall.

Willie confessed a hope in Christ at an early age and worshipped with his family at Church of Nazarene in East St. Louis, Illinois.

Willie received his formal education from Cahokia School District where he received recognition in track and field. In 1970, he graduated from Kentucky Job Corp in Louisville, Kentucky. After Job Corp, he worked at American Car and Foundry Company until the company closed.

In 1969 he met the love of his life, Melba Johnson and four children were born to this relationship: Andrea, Andre, Darius and Tamika. He loved and adored his children, grandchildren and family. He was proud that his grandchildren participated in sports and would jokingly say when each grandchild was born that "this one is going to be my ticket." He called everyone in the community, "niece" and "nephew" and he was affectionately referred to as "Uncle Moose". No one could ever do wrong in his eyes. His loving and caring ways was the hallmark of his personality which will be missed by all his family and friends.

Willie leaves to cherish many fond memories to his children, Andrea Brown, Andre (Erica) Brown, Darius Brown, Tamika (Demetrius) White, Giaco (Destiney) Granger and Christi Granger; 16 grandchildren, India, Tony, Lexi, Jaylnn, Darian, Keendi, Giaco, Dalarryan, Yannah, Darionna, Andre, Jr., Leah, London, Patience, Journey, and Austin; 1 great grandson, Jaden; 4 sisters, Diane (Lamont) Hawkins, Willie Ann Brown, Rosie Marie Hall, and Margaret Hall; 1 brother, James Brown; plus a host of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.