Deacon Willie Joe Gaffney

Deacon Willie Joe Gaffney's earthly journey began on June 18, 1939 in Sylacauga, Alabama to his beloved parents, Earle Gaffney and Addie Osbarn Gaffney.  He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an age and united with Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Sylacauga, Alabama.

Willie Joe, received his formal education in the Sylacauga City School System and graduated from East Highland High School, Sylacauga, Alabama.  Shortly after receiving his high school diploma, he relocated to New Jersey.

While residing in New Jersey, he met the love of his life, Frances L. Lawrence.  They prove to be inseparable and united in Holy Matrimony in Hackensack, New Jersey, to this union one daughter was born, Linda G. Jackson.  As a family they worship and united with Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Leonia, New Jersey, where Willie Joe was ordained as a Deacon. Later in life, Willie Joe and Frances returned to Sylacauga, Alabama and reunited with Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a Deacon. 

Willie Joe had an inspirational quote and motto “If only I can help someone alone the way, I know my living won't be in vain”. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

On June 17, 2023, Deacon Willie Joe Gaffney departed this walk of life under the care of Coosa Valley Medical Center, Sylacauga, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earle and Addie Gaffney, sister, Lola Rowe, brother, Andrew Gaffney, John L. Gaffney, and McAuther Gaffney.

His love will forever be cherished by his loving wife, Frances L. Gaffney; loving daughter, Linda (Lawrence) Jackson; three loving grandchildren, Anton Gaffney, Jamika Jackson, and Lawrence Jackson, Jr.; great grandchildren, Anton Jr. Cosgrove, Dominique Anderson, Kameron Laguna, Jaylen Jones, and Jadia Jones; one brother, Earle (Barbara) Gaffney; one sister, Annie R. Elston and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. 

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