Willie Davis

Broyles

In Loving Memory of Willie Davis Broyles (Bootchie)

Willie Davis Broyles was born on October 23, 1947, to the late Willie B. Broyles and Jessie Lee Swanson Broyles. He departed this life on August 19, 2026, at Monroe Regional Hospital in Aberdeen, Mississippi. At an early age, Willie confessed his hope in Christ and joined Second Baptist Missionary Baptist Church in Prairie, Mississippi. His faith remained an important part of his life, guiding his love for his family, his service to others, and his devotion to his community. Even as a child, Willie served as an usher, beginning a lifelong example of faith, service, and devotion to others.

Willie was a hardworking, skilled, and enterprising man. His first job as a young man was at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He was an employee at Ford Motor Company in Chicago, Illinois, where he dedicated many years of hard work and commitment. 

Throughout his life, his many talents led him to work in a variety of industries. He served faithfully for 28 years as a truck driver for Monroe County in Aberdeen, MS and worked for more than 25 years at Walmart in West Point, Mississippi. He took great pride in both positions and was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. He was also a hardworking farmer who found pride and fulfillment in working the land and livestock. Willie was also a dedicated bus driver, a job he held for many years. He took pride in providing for his family and in all that he accomplished throughout his life.

Willie was also a proud member of the United States Army and a dedicated Veteran. His service to our country was a source of great pride throughout his life. We honor and remember him not only for the love he shared with his family and friends, but also for his commitment and sacrifice in serving our nation. His courage, strength, and patriotism will always be remembered and cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Willie was also a trailblazer in the Prairie community. As a young man, he became the first Black person in Prairie to own and operated a full-service gas station. He later became one of the first Black business owners to open a convenience store in the community. His entrepreneurial spirit continued through his ownership of a barbershop, as well as his work as an auto mechanic and towing service provider. Whether working in industry, operating a business, repairing automobiles, or creating something with his own hands in his backyard, Willie approached every task with confidence, independence, and determination.

Affectionately known as "Bootchie" and "Mr. Willie," he demonstrated that faith, perseverance, and hard work could overcome barriers. His life reflected the truth that God's goodness endures and that his purpose prevails despite life's obstacles. When God says yes, no earthly barrier can stand in the way.

Willie's courage and accomplishments were especially meaningful during a time when black men often faced discrimination and were denied the respect and opportunities they deserved. His family will always honor the legacy of strength, dignity, confidence, and independence that he leaves behind.Throughout his life, Willie found his greatest joy in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His life was a testament to his generous heart and unwavering devotion to his family, his community, and others. He taught his family to work hard, remain independent, love one another, show respect, and always treat others well. 

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Willie B. Broyles and Jessie Lee Swanson Broyles; his sisters, Gloria Ann Broyles Dunlap and Linda "Lynn" Broyles; and his brother, Randy Broyles.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved and devoted wife of 55 years, Mary Ann "Nancy" Broyles; and their ten children: Tykela Rena Broyles of D'Iberville, Mississippi; Christopher Pulliam (LaShonda) of Houston, Texas; Jennifer Broyles Oliver (Tonny) of Aberdeen, Mississippi; Marian Pulliam (Cynthia) of Columbus, Mississippi; David Broyles of Prairie, Mississippi; Christy Amanda Broyles McAllister (Jermaine) of Saltillo, Mississippi; Felicia Broyles of Prairie, Mississippi; Holly Ann Broyles of Tupelo, Mississippi; Hope Lee Broyles of Prairie, Mississippi; and Randy James Broyles of Prairie, Mississippi.

He also leaves to cherish his memory one sister, Susie Broyles Lofton of Las Vegas, Nevada; one brother, Leonard Broyles (Jan) of Aurora, Illinois; one aunt, Annie Mae Metcalf of Prairie, Mississippi; 21 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, and countless friends who will forever hold him dear in their hearts.

Willie was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, great-grandfather, caring brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Most importantly, he was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. He was the light in every room, and there was never a dull moment in his presence. Although he will be deeply missed, his strength, humor, generosity, faith, and love will be fondly remembered by everyone whose life he touched.

Willie Davis "Bootchie" Broyles has finished his earthly journey and gone home to be with the Lord. His life was well lived, his family was deeply loved, and his legacy will endure for generations.