LIFE AND JOURNEY OF WILLIE D. AIKENS, SR.

Willie D. Aikens, Sr., affectionately known as "Papa" was born September 9, 1942 in Readland, Arkansas. He was the son of John Aikens, Sr. and Willie Bea Aikens. He was called from labor to reward on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at the age of 79 at the loving home of his oldest son and his wife, Robert and Courtney. Willie was the fourth child of eleven siblings. He grew up in the community of Sterling along Grand Lake in Readland.

Willie is preceded in death by his father, John Aikens, Sr.; mother, Willie Bea Aikens; former wife and mother of his five children, Lillie Moses; son, Tyrone Lamar Aikens; brothers, an infant boy and Lee Gus "Maine" Aikens; sisters, Annie Mae Richardson, Jannie 'Nub' Bennett, Louise Spencer, and Gloria Jean Alexander.

Willie attended Eudora Middle School up to eighth grade. As a young man, Willie picked up work by picking and chopping cotton in his earlier days. Later in his adult years, he continued working in the farming industry. While doing farm work with Pete and Joyce Poole, Willie rented land from Wayne Martin to do some farming of his own as he prided himself by having some level of independence. As part of his farming business, he raised cotton using the two tractors that he owned. Willie was truly a hard-worker who purchased a home early in life for his family. He always has been a great provider to his children as he had a fondness and love for children. He also had a very giving spirit and often would give grandchildren, nephews, and nieces monies when he saw them.

Willie was known to be a quiet person. He did not bother anyone. Although his nature was more serious toned and 'easy-going', he enjoyed laughing at the jokes and playfulness of others. Willie was extremely close to his brother, Lee Gus who was known as 'Maine'. They were like 'two peas in a pod' as you did not see one without the other. In more relax times and enjoyment, Willie in his earlier days, hunted rabbits and raccoons but really enjoyed fishing. Did anyone mention Western TV shows Whenever the television was on, Willie was watching the Western TV shows.

Willie leaves to cherish his earthly memories: two sons, Robert Aikens (Courtney) and Willie D. Aikens (Angela); two daughters, Gloria "Kissie" Aikens and Yolanda Aikens. Fourteen grandchildren: Braea Aikens, Tyrone Aikens, Jr., Makalia Aikens, and Ttyanta Aikens, Derrick Freeman, Devonte Pickens, Andre Patrick, Nakeisha Aikens, Anquineka Aikens, Breanna Aikens, Jasmine Moses, Mya Aikens, Tyrone Aikens, Asa Johnson. Eight great-grandchildren: Mau'Hoganii Anderson, Aziyah Patrick, Andre Patrick III, Andrevion Patrick, Erin Wade, Jehova Craig, Kynn Aikens, and Zier Amier Wilbarger. Three sisters: Thara Mae Randolph (Robert); Betty Jean Brown (late Horace Brown); Delorise Aikens; and one brother: John Aikens, Jr. (Janie).

River of Sorrow by Todd Nigro

Drinking from the waters of sorrow sustains a different kind of life. This river is hidden from the rest of the world. Tears drip from my chin and fall into an endless flow of liquid love. This river sparkles with beauty.

Samuel L. Vance & Sons Funeral Directors

" The Epitome of Service "

Minister's Institute

Saturday, June 4, 2022

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM 1329 Front Street Eudora, AR 71640 CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Minister's Institute

Saturday, June 4, 2022

1:00 PM 1329 Front Street Eudora, AR 71640