Willie's Journey began on January 25, 1947 in Greenwood, MS, born to two loving parents Willie Shirden Sr. and Rosie Alexander Romious (his number one supporter). Both parents and one brother, Yandell Alexander proceeded him in death.

Bull was a unique person, very outspoken, yet he had a loving heart. Willie's life journey took him on several rollercoaster rides, in which he always owned and made the best of them all.

Bull's education was from the Venice and Madison School Districts. He was proud to join the United States Army where he proudly served his country for four years. Bull later was proud to receive an Associate's Degree, he was always a person who loved to read and study whatever he was passionate about.

Willie was employed by Dow Chemical and several other like companies throughout his journey. Bull was always dressed sharp and loved to make a fashion statement wherever he went, wearing his Broad brim or Kangol hats, Stacey Adams and Snake skin shoes. Even when fashion changed with gold necklaces and rings, his fashion statement NEVER made that change.

Willie loved to cook and eat good food, the food always had to be cooked RIGHT; a few of his favorites; collard greens, turkey and dressing, fried fish, chitterlings, and sweet potato pies. We can hear him now talking extremely loud saying: this is good cooking right here!  Bull finished this journey in Joplin, MO, where he resided for 9 years.

Willie departed this life on March 24, 2024. Willie leaves to cherish his memory one son, Anthony (Mary) Shipp of Madison, IL, one granddaughter, Hadley Shipp, two great granddaughters, Zoey & Rosie; one loving and supportive sister, Lottie Boyd of Madison, IL.; four special nieces, Sonya (Sylvester) Collins, Teresa Collins, Ajada Alexander, Aryanna Alexander; two special friends, John Ingram and Charles Wilborn, and a host of great nephews, nieces, cousins and friends, plus his loving Greenwood, Mississippi Family.