September 24, 1952 – April 13, 2023

Ret. Gunnery Sgt. Willie Lee Thorpe, age 70, of Colonial Heights, Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born September 24, 1952.

Willie was a loving father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle, and friend. He will always be remembered for his focus on family, his authenticity, and his zest for life.

Willie was a maverick from the very start of his humble beginnings in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. He left Dinwiddie and traveled the world, proudly serving his country for 23 years in the United States Marine Corps.

He was preceded in death by his father, Will Minor Thorpe; and his mother, Roxanna Thorpe.

Willie is survived by his daughter, LaTicia (Terrence); stepdaughter, Tara (George); special friend, Carolyn; grandchildren, Samari (Destiny), Simeon and Edwardo Jr.; five sisters, Ada, Jacqueline, Flora (Joseph), Sandra (Allan) and Diane; four brothers, Robert (Anna), Bernard (Angelia), Gregory (Liz), and Sidney; special friend, John Pegram; and a host of aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

The family wishes to thank his many caretakers at Dinwiddie Rehabilitation Center, Colonial Heights Health and Rehabilitation Center, and Affinity Hospice Care. He will TRULY be missed. We Love You!

Services will be held 10:00 A.M., Friday, April 21, 2023, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. The interment to follow at Virginia Veterans Cemetery.J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.