Mr. Willie Charles Menchion
Mr. Willie Charles Menchion
Mr. Willie Charles Menchion, age 86, of Cottondale, Florida (Mt. Olive Community) went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 11, 2025, at the Piedmont Henry Hospital in Stockbridge, Georgia.
Born on April 5, 1939, in Youngstown, Florida, Willie Charles Menchion was the beloved son of Alex and Lillie Menchion. A product of the Bay County School System, Willie’s early years in Florida laid the foundation for a life defined by hard work, unwavering faith, and an expansive heart.
On March 6, 1959, Willie entered into a sacred union with his devoted wife, Frances Jones Menchion. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, spanning 65 beautiful years. Together, they built a legacy through their four children: Wilton “Chuck”, Terrie, Carla and Kenneth “Kenny”.
Willie’s professional journey was marked by a spirit of service and craftsmanship. He began his career at the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys before transitioning into decades of successful self-employment as a master plumber and electrician. A man of remarkable versatility, he was a "jack of all trades" who could fix anything, yet his greatest skill was uplifting others.
A pillar of his community, Willie was a founding member of the Golden Key Club, where he served in numerous leadership capacities, including President. He was known for his wisdom and his relentless positivity; even in the face of illness, his standard refrain remained a stoic and courageous, "I am fine."
Willie was a culinary icon in his neighborhood, revered as the "Community Barbeque Master." His generosity knew no clock; whether it was midday or 2 a.m., his door remained open, and his grill remained hot. He believed that breaking bread was a form of grace, and he made it his mission to ensure that no soul left his presence hungry.
To many, he was simply "Uncle Willie"—the man who showed up whenever he was called. He cherished his vast family unit, finding his greatest joy in the bonds shared with his siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. While he preferred the comforts of home, he journeyed across the miles to create lasting memories and reflect on life's blessings with those he loved.
A faithful servant of both his faith and his family, Willie was a pillar of the St. James A.M.E. Church community. His life was a testament to the values of devotion and hard work, as he served as the steadfast provider and protector of his household.
Within the walls of his home, Willie’s love was most often expressed through his culinary talents; he took great pride in preparing nearly every family meal, ensuring his loved ones were nourished in both body and spirit. As a father, he was a constant, encouraging presence. He believed deeply in the power of opportunity, fervently supporting his children’s academic pursuits and personal growth.
Whether it was the intensity of a football game or the speed of a track meet, Willie was a fixture on the sidelines—their most loyal fan and loudest cheerleader. His legacy is defined by his unwavering support and the quiet, daily acts of service that built a foundation of love for his wife and children.
Willie was preceded in death by his siblings: Alexander Menchion, Alchester Menchion, Frank Grice, Joseph Grice, Inez Bolware, Estelle Gaines, Hurley Holley, Isaac Menchion, Ollie Mae Menchion, James Menchion, Lessie Crawford, Perline Menchion, Rosie Bryant, Daisy Edwards, Carrie Long, William Menchion, Bryant Menchion, Manella Lewis, Joseph Menchion and John Menchion.
His legacy is carried forward by his brother, Raleigh Menchion of Marianna, FL; four children: Dr. Wilton Menchion (Judy) of Orlando, FL; Terrie Menchion-Mills (Lloyd) of Marianna, FL; Carla Menchion of Jonesboro, GA; and Dr. Kenneth Menchion (Geraldine) of McDonough, GA and a vast host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Willie Charles Menchion was a man who moved through the world with kindness and a joke at the ready. From his club brothers to his extended family, everyone who crossed his path was touched by his warmth. He leaves behind an indelible mark—a blueprint of how to live with a good heart, a helping hand, and an open door. His memory will forever be a source of strength and light to all who knew.
A public visitation will be 4-6 PM, Thursday, January 22, 2023, in the M. Sue & Rodney D. Pittman Memorial Chapel, 5441 Cooper Street, in Graceville, Florida.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026, at 11:00 AM (EST) in the sanctuary of St. James AME Church, 2891 Orange St, Marianna, Florida.
Interment will follow in the Mt. Olive AME Cemetery, Marianna, Florida under the directions of Christian Memorial Chapel of Graceville, Florida.