REIDSVILLE - Mr. Willie Morris Lane, Sr., age 89, was granted his heavenly reward on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at his residence with his family gathered around him.

Public viewing will begin on Monday, October 21, 2024 from 12 until 8 p.m. at McLaurin-Harris Funeral Home, 721 East Morehead Street, Reidsville, NC.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 12 p.m. at McLaurin-Harris Memorial Chapel, 721 East Morehead Street, Reidsville, NC. The family visitation will begin at 11:30 a.m. Pastor Cassandra Broadnax, eulogist.

The committal and interment will follow in Greenview Cemetery, Reidsville, NC.

A native and lifelong resident of Reidsville, Willie attended Booker T. Washington High School and was honored in the Reidsville Football Hall of Fame. He went on to play semi-professional baseball and completed his education at Rockingham Community College.

As a teenager, Willie met the love of his life and dedicated wife of 71 years, Verdell B. Lane. Together created both a family, and a love that overflowed to anyone needing refuge, guidance, and hope.

Willie's parents instilled in him a strong work ethic that guided him throughout his life, beginning with his first job as a stocker at West End Grocery Store. He later took on the role of delivering milk for Guildford Dairy and Pine Hill Dairy, serving Reidsville and Rockingham County. However, when Willie built his own home, he truly discovered his niche. He honed his skills, he became a professional brick mason. His exceptional craftsmanship can be seen far and wide.

At a young age, Willie professed his hope in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was baptized at Danbury Primitive Baptist Church and later became a member of Zion Baptist Church, where he diligently served as a trustee for many years.

He is preceded in death by parents, John Early and Lillie Lawson Lane; his daughter, Faye Lane, and his siblings, Arbon, Lawyer, Zenna, Harvey, Dewey, Melvin and Catherine. Those remaining to lament his passing include his wife, Verdell B. Lane; his children, Cassandra Broadnax, Marion L. Broadnax (Lincoln), Willie Lane, Jr., Donna Harden and Maureen Blackwell (Gregory); his brother, John Henry Lane and sister-in-law, Susie Lane. He leaves behind a proud legacy, including 25 grandchildren—one of whom, Steven Anthony Lane, he raised as his own—along with 32 great-grandchildren and countless nieces, nephews, and friend.

Service by McLaurin-Harris