Willie Vester Young was born on February 14, 1913 to the late Ellison and Beulah Dark. She departed this world on March 5, 2012 in the Chapman Health Care Center, Inc. in Alexander City, Alabama. Willie, as she was known, was a licensed nurse and worked for many years in hospitals and medical facilities in New York City.

She returned to Alexander City to live with her late brother E. S. Dark, known to friends and family as "Snookum."

Willie had many friends and worshiped for many years in Great Bethel Baptist Church, where she grew up and her father was a Deacon.

Willie was the last surviving member of her siblings, that included five sisters and three brothers. She leaves to mourn: a niece, Maryland State Delegate Barbara. A. Robinson, who lives in Baltimore, Maryland; a nephew, Alphonza Cofield in Baltimore, Maryland; a niece, Sandra L. Burris in Boston, Massachusetts; a niece, Debbie Thomas in New York City; a great niece, Michelle Jones in Alexander City, Alabama, and a host of great nieces, nephews, cousins, great great, great great great nieces and friends.

Willie sends a message of thanks, to Michelle Jones, who provided loving care to ensure that Willie knew she was not forgotten by her family. Although Willie did not remember who Michelle was, Michelle remembered who Willie was. Often when Michelle was struggling with her own health challenges, she managed to visit Willie in the nursing home.

Michelle, on behalf of our Aunt Willie, thank you for caring enough, and letting her know that she was loved.