Mr. Willie Lee Pree Jr.

We celebrate the homegoing of our beloved Willie Lee Pree, Jr., affectionately known as Junior, Uncle Junebug, Bill, Daddy, and PaPa. On Wednesday, April 3, 2025, Willie peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into the arms of our Heavenly Father. While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the beautiful life he lived and the enduring legacy he leaves behind—one built on love, faith, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Born on July 6, 1953, in Oakland, California, to Norma and Willie Lee Pree, Sr., Willie spent his formative years with his siblings in Fulton, Arkansas, nurtured by the strong and loving hands of his grandparents, Clinton and Mary Ella Pree, and his cherished great-grandmother, Catherine “Granny” Murdock. It was there, in the warmth of his family’s country store—affectionately known as The Place—that his passion for cooking, storytelling, and good barbecue took root. A proud scholar and man of faith, Willie was baptized at Galilee Baptist Church and remained a servant of the church throughout his life. He graduated from Hope High School in 1972, where he met his former wife, Reva Pree, and later earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Arkansas University in 1977. His early work at AP&L, where he even drew blueprints for homes, marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service and excellence in the energy sector. Willie’s professional journey took him across Arkansas and Mississippi as he rose through the ranks at Entergy—from Business Manager in Warren, AR, to District Manager in Greenville, MS, and finally to Senior Customer Service Manager in Tunica, MS, where he retired. Along the way, he dedicated himself to civic service, holding leadership roles as President of Warren Lions Club, President of Bradley County Chamber of Commerce, Vice President of Bradley County Industrial Development Commission and Board member of the Pink Tomato Festival, participating in Greenville 100 Black Men, and serving faithfully at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church and Union Hill Baptist Church. Beyond his professional and civic life, Willie was a man who truly lived. He cherished life’s simple pleasures—smoked ribs on the grill, a good story, an old blues tune, and quality time with his grandson. He especially found joy and fellowship in the great outdoors. Willie was an avid hunter and fisherman, often found in the early morning woods or by the water’s edge with his close-knit group of hunting buddies. Their shared laughter, friendly competition, and lifelong friendship added a richness to his days that he treasured deeply. Those trips weren’t just about the hunt—they were about brotherhood, memories, and the joy of being in nature. Willie is survived by his loving daughter, Jasmine Pree Hameth (Reginald) of Atlanta, GA, and his cherished grandson, Austin Cary of Lufkin, TX. He also leaves behind his siblings: Brenda Pree, Patricia Holmes, and Marilyn Scott (Larry) of Baytown, TX, and Clinton Pree of Fulton, AR and a host of nieces and nephews. To know Willie was to be loved by him. His legacy is one of warmth, resilience, and unwavering love for his family, friends, and community. He will forever be remembered for his servant’s heart, his infectious laugh, and the light he brought to every room he entered. We won’t say goodbye—just “see you later.” The fire’s still going, the stories live on, and your seat at the table will always be yours. Celebration of Life services will be held Saturday, April 18th, 2025, at Greater Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Hope, Arkansas at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Scott’s Memorial Cemetery in Hope under the direction of R.L. Reed Funeral Home, LLC. A wake will be held Friday {Apr. 18th}, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., at Greater Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Hope, Arkansas. “For precaution due to the COVID-19, Masks are Encouraged but Not Required While Attending the Services and During Visitation Hours. However, wearing masks ensures safety for you and others. Thank you.”

Mr. Willie Lee Pree Jr.

July 6, 1953 - April 3, 2025

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Mr. Willie Lee Pree Jr.

July 6, 1953 - April 3, 2025

Obituary Notification

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information