Willie Matthew Haywood - Obituary

illie was born on May 2, 1933 in Raleigh, NC to Willie and Esther (Byrd) Haywood. He excelled in school, attending Washington High School and graduating as student class Vice President in 1950. He would occasionally remark proudly, in conversations with a dear friend of his, on them being the youngest to graduate high school in their class. Willie went on to Hampton University where he received his Bachelor’s degree in 1954, and American University for Masters degree in 1965. With his love of constantly learning, he also studied at the University of Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and University of Ghana. Willie had a distinguished twenty six year career in the military, as part of the Air Defense Artillery Branch of the Army. His roles included Battalion Commander during one of his two tours in Vietnam, Battalion Commander during a tour in Germany, Attache Officer in multiple African countries, and lecturer at the National War College as an African Affairs Specialist. During his career in the military he received a number of commendations and medals including but not limited to, a National Defense Service Medal, an Air Medal, a Legion of Merit, a Joint Service Achievement Medal. Willie was an avid reader, and his homes were always filled with volumes of books on varied topics. He bestowed this love of reading and learning to each of his children, emphasizing the value of education both formal and informal. He was a well of knowledge and embodied the idea of a lifelong learner. He loved music and would frequently play some of his favorite artists and composers; from Nat King Cole, Ray Charles, Count Basie, to Tchaikovsky, and Beethoven. He enjoyed traveling and visiting new countries which can be seen from the scores of photos of various places he lived or visited. He was known for his booming voice (forever commanding a battalion) and jovial attitude. Willie had a giving heart, always willing to help someone get a leg up in life. His generosity extended past family to include friends and many organizations. He supported a number of nonprofits predominantly with missions to help veteran and active duty military members. It is with this and so much more that on Friday, February 26, 2021, Willie Haywood, loving husband and father of five children, went home to be with the Lord. Willie was preceded in death by his father, Willie Sr., his mother Esther, his brother Paul, and his first wife Maryetta. He is survived by his wife Rose, his children Michael, Joan, Jeanne, Annitta, and Ike, several grandchildren, nieces, a nephew, cousins, and many friends including his childhood and forever friend David Edwards.