William Winfield, 64, of Snellville, Georgia, passed on October 15, 2020. William was born on January 21, 1956.

Mr. William “Billy” Alan Winfield

William “Billy” Alan Winfield was born on January 21, 1956 in Memphis, TN. to the late William and Bernice Winfield. The Winfield’s were proud to have three sons in which Billy was the eldest. In 1963 the Winfield’s relocated to their new home of Detroit, MI. passionately known as “Motown.” Billy was scholar-athlete at Detroit’s Redford High School. After graduating, Billy enrolled at Jackson State University in Jackson, MS. where he studied Communications while entertaining listeners on radio airwaves. Upon completing his degree, Billy was hired by Delta Airlines where he went on to have a successful career that spanned nearly thirty years. In 1986 Billy decided that the cold winters in Detroit were enough and he moved to sunny Los Angeles. Upon arriving in Los Angeles he met his best friend and soulmate Gretchen Gardner. Miss Gardner was raising a young son and the three of them became inseparable. Billy and Gretchen went on to become married in 1996 in Marina Del Rey, CA. Billy served numerous years as a member of First AME Church of Los Angeles prior to moving to Atlanta, GA. in 1998 where he retired from Delta Airlines. He was a lifelong Detroit Pistons, Lions and Tigers fans and you would hear him yelling passionately at the television while watching the game. Billy leaves behind a wife Gretchen S. Winfield, children Sylvia (21), Matthew (21), William-Darius (20), Joshua (19), Isaiah (18), Sara-Lena (15) and stepson Samuel (Shonn) Gardner III, Cherry Hill, NJ. grandsons, Samuel IV and Miles. Brothers Vincent, Snellville, GA. and Brian (Jackson, MS.) along with a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Billy and Gretchen were fortunate to provide care for sixty-three foster children over the years. Billy will always be remembered for being a great man of God who only knew love and he always gave his best to everyone.

Words from the Family- 

Vincent (Brother): 

Dear Billy,

I will always love you, respect you, and remember you. Vincent, Brian, mom, Dad and the rest of our loved ones miss you terribly. We will always carry on your kindness towards others, confidence, and goodwill. God is good, all of the time, God is good. Amen. 

    Love you always,

                    Vincent. 

Brian (Brother): 

Now that my brother has transitioned, I've learned in life that any person that passes does not have to be forgotten. I've learned that in death, there is life. I will always remember that our special brotherly relationship is one that can continue to live. Our bond can never be defined. 

Over these last 10 years, I've had the closest relationship with Billy, that he and I had ever experienced. I'm so blessed as all of us are, to have been able to be a part of his life. Humor, unconditional love to even strangers, intellect, and a friend to the end. I will never forget how he helped raise me and Vincent. 

They took care of me, taught me, looked out for me, and for those facts, I am forever thankful. This was hard to write, so I'll end before I endure any more unnecessary pain. I love you Billy, and your traits, you love, and humor will last inside of me all the rest of my days. 

God bless all who have traveled to send him on his journey.

To those abroad who couldn't make it, thank you and I love you.

~ I love you and I thank you. 

Gretchen (Wife): 'Dear Heart'

Love

is patient

is kind

it does not envy

it does not boast

it is not proud

it is not rude

it is not self-seeking

it is not easily angered

it keeps no record of wrong

...never fails

Matthew (Son): 

Love you Dad. I love how you taught me discipline. I love how you were humorous. I'm glad you are at peace now. You fought your battle and won. I love you for that. Rest easy.

                     Love you,

                               Matthew

Sylvia (Daughter):

My father was a very humble and peaceful man. He loved his wife, family, and God. We know you're dancing your way into heaven. You taught us what it meant to "walk by faith and not by sight." My father always treated people with the utmost respect. Heaven truly gained an angel you will truly be missed by us all. We're going to miss the jokes, the dance moves, and the moments of laughter. Although we've said goodbye we know you're watching over us every step of the way. Our guardian angel forever and always. I'm glad to call you my father..Gone but never forgotten.

             Love always,

                         Sylvia Winfield

Isaiah (Son): 

Most peoples' favorite superhero is Spider-Man or Batman. Mine was my dad. I'm thankful every day I was adopted, raised by someone who was incredible like him. The way he would walk into a room and make everyone's day was so amazing. Every day you would tell me you're proud of me and the man I have become. You were the funniest man and I'm gonna forever miss that. I love you so much and I'm so proud to carry your last name...Until we meet again. 

   - Isaiah Winfield 

Sara-Lena (Daughter): 

My dad was like my twin, he meant the world to me. I loved him very much, he helped me get through a lot by encouraging me. He was always by my side through thick and thin. I loved how he laughed and would yell at the TV when the Lions always did something stupid. He was basically my football buddy, I'm glad he's not in any more pain, and that he can finally rest without suffering. I'm also glad that he can rest peacefully, and he's happy looking down at us, helping us as an angel. I love him dearly and will always. He was the best dad ever...GHEE!!

     Yours truly,

                  Sara-Lena Winfield

William Darius Winfield III (Son):

My father was a man of virtue and faith. No matter what struggles we faced as a family, Dad always found a way to make us laugh. His ability to find the humor in every situation never failed to lift our spirits. 

While this is a solemn occasion and these past weeks have been saddening, I remember how much he loved and continues to love his family. I know he would rather us reflect on the amazing times we've shared with him and the joyous memories we have of such a faithful servant of God and such a wonderful father. 

He lived his life for his family with his head raised high and he has received his reward: eternity with his heavenly father. No more pain or suffering. While I have lost my father, for now, I have gained a guardian angel. One whose lessons are a guidelight for my life and an inspiration for my future. I love you, Dad. Rest in peace and rest well.