Obituary of Willie Nell Watford

Willie Nell Beck Butler Watford,88, widow of Robert L. Watford, a loving wife of 38 years, a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend went to be with her Lord and Savior on August 11, 2022. Mrs. Watford was born in Laurens, South Carolina to the late Alfred Dewey Beck and Montine Bowles Beck. Willie Nell grew up in the depression era. From her parents, she learned to live from the land, and how to love and raise a family. She was a member of Word of Life Ministries. She also was a part of the developing and planting of The Paxville Church of God of Prophecy in Paxville, SC. She enjoyed singing, cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family. Willie Nell was a foster parent and a caregiver at heart She spent several years caring for siblings and family as they aged. Her mission in life was first to serve Jesus with others, and second to encourage love within her family. She was very involved with church all her life, as well as teaching God’s Holy Word, leadership with the church, and involvement in missions. Willie Nell took on the role of a caregiver for long periods of time for many family members and acquaintances. She brought laughter, love and togetherness to all she knew and even to those she met on the street. She was a great example to follow. For to follow her was to follow Christ. Surviving is a daughter, Ernestine B. Driver; a son Sherman Leon Butler; a sister, Annie Bell Beck Smith; brother in-law, Ansel Butler; sister in-law, Doris B Lyda; three grandchildren, Amber Lynn Butler, Katelyn Butler and Dylan Butler; with many loving nieces and nephews; and honorable mention, Bryant Ashe and Patricia Ward, whom she loved and called her other son and daughter. She was predeceased by her first husband of 25 years, Ernest Roosevelt Butler; seven brothers; and two sisters. A Home Going Celebration will be 12 noon Saturday at Fletcher Funeral Service officiated by Rev. James Beck, Dr. Darrell Engle and Rev. John Smith. A graveside service will be 2 pm Sunday at Jordan United Methodist Church cemetery in Manning, SC.