Willa Mae Campbell

Willa Mae Campbell was born on January 13, 1930, in Cincinnati, Ohio to the late Will Campbell and Lessie (Hightower) Campbell. Willa Mae was one of eight children born to this union. Her siblings Henrietta, Oliver, Clifford, Rebecca, Rufus, Floyd, and Robert preceded her in death. The Lord called Willa Mae home from this earthly life on August 5, 2021.

Willa Mae graduated from East Vocational High School in 1948. She joined the workforce right away and found her niche as an office assistant. Shortly after finishing high school, her mother passed away in 1950. With 3 younger brothers still in school, Willa found herself working, mentoring and helping to raise Rufus, Floyd, and baby brother Robert. Willa was a hard worker, and took advantage of any opportunity to advance in her overall career. She held several jobs: key puncher, supply clerk, entry accountant and lastly as an adjudicator in the Veterans administration. Prior to leaving Cincinnati, she ensured that her youngest brother Robert finished high school, and went on to graduate from Central State University.

Willa’s lengthy work history took her to Dayton, Ohio, Sheraton, Illinois, and Chicago, Illinois. Willa finally retired after over 40 years of service with the federal government. She returned to Cincinnati to be closer to her 3 brothers. Once here in Cincinnati, Willa continued to volunteer with the AARP organization, and became an active member of Friendship Baptist Church in Lincoln Heights, Ohio. Willa loved the Lord, and was an active member of the Pastor’s Aide committee, and Senior Mission. Willa strongly supported her pastor and the church’s missions. Willa loved supporting the youth in their educational endeavors, with a focus on the scholarship ministry at the church. Another love of Willa’s was bingo. She developed life-long friendships with the residents and staff at Mercy Community @ Winton Woods while enjoying the competition of bingo with her peers. We are eternally grateful to the management and staff @ MCWW.

Willa leaves to cherish her memory, several nieces and nephews, numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces, great-great nephews and a host of family and friends. Willa Mae preached education and strong work ethic to all of her younger family members. She will be missed for her direct opinion and love for her African-American brothers and sisters.

Graveside service for Ms. Willa Mae Campbell will be held on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 11:00 AM at Landmark Memorial Gardens with Rev. Oliver Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Landmark Cemetery at 11:00 AM, 1600 Glendale Milford Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45215.