Willie Henry Speaker

Willie Henry Speaker, age 91 of Big Spring, passed away on Saturday, February 26, 2022. A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00pm Monday, February 28, 2022 at Trinity Memorial Park.
A reception for family and friends to follow at Spring Creek Fellowship.

Willie was born March 7th, 1930, in Indian Gap, Texas, and married Sylvia Cope on May 26, 1953, in Lovington, New Mexico. They enjoyed 68 years of love and happiness together.

Willie was a Christian who loved and depended on the LORD. He prayed daily, especially for his family. He fought on the front lines of the Korean War with the 2nd Chemical Mortar Battalion, also known as the “Red Dragons”. Willie was extremely patriotic, and flew his American Flag every day. He retired from his position as the Tire Department Manager at the Howard County Road and Bridge department in 1992, after 28 years. During his retirement, he kept himself busy with his favorite activities: carpentry work, fishing, playing dominoes (especially 42), travelling, visiting casinos, and especially spending time with his beloved family. He loved little kids and animals, and they were attracted to him like a magnet. He had worked as a truck driver in his younger years, and continued to enjoy driving for the rest of his life. At the age of 91, he drove from Big Spring to Flagstaff in one day (750 miles), and got up early the next morning and drove into Reno(730 miles), after which he claimed he wasn’t even tired!

Survivors include his wife, Sylvia, daughter and son-in-law Debby and Jim Cook, Grandson Robbi Calley, Grandson & Granddaughter-in-law Mike and Terri Calley, and Great-Granddaughters Brook, Paige, and Abby Calley. In addition, he is survived by several beloved Nieces and Nephews.

He was preceded in death by His parents, Lena and August Speaker, Brothers Herman, R.J., and Walter Speaker, Sisters Minnie Adkins, Edna Grisham, Betty Johnke, and Clara Smith, and Brother-in-law Allen Cope.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com