Willie James Fair was born on December 15, 1929, in Weir, Mississippi, one of eight children to the late George Fair and Ethel Lee and Thomas Miller. He confessed a hope in Christ at an early age at Fancy Hill Baptist Church in Weir, Mississippi. In 1949 Willie was united in matrimony to the late Gertrude Winters. To this union, four daughters and three sons were born. One daughter preceded him in death. In the fall of 1962, the family moved from Shaw, Mississippi, to Memphis, Tennessee. He joined Macedonia Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Mack, and later joined Holy Grove Missionary Baptist Church, pastored by Rev. Daniel Hobbs, where he became an usher. He was ordained as a deacon at Union Progressive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Davis, and continued to serve under the late Rev. Spiller and the Rev. James Fair until his death. Mr. Fair worked in construction from the time he moved to Memphis, Tennessee, until he retired in 1994. He took pride in pointing out the numerous buildings that he helped build. He was also proud of the fact that he never called in sick and always arrived to work thirty minutes early. He believed in an honest day's work for an honest day's pay, but had no desire to work as a lead person. Deacon Fair enjoyed listening to gospel music, and preaching. He was known to start the day by reading Scripture, prayer, and meditation. He enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, national basketball, baseball, and football games and wrestling until late at night. He also enjoyed watching his security system to see what was going on in the neighborhood. He loved having his friends and family around him, and especially celebrating the holidays with them. It also brought him comfort and pleasure to spend time with his special friend, Earlène Borrum. Deacon Fair departed this life on June 21, 2019, at his home, leaving to cherish his memories: three daughters, Ethel Carter (Lance), Sallie Powell (Charles) and Tina Woodruff; five sons: Lawrence Fair (Tiffany), James Fair (Stephanie), George Fair (April), Billy Fair (Cheryl) and Antonio Fair; one brother, Jake Andrew Miller of Seat Pleasant, Maryland; seventeen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Earlene Borrum; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.