Mr. Willie B. McCarden, 79, of West Point, GA, transitioned on December 3, 2025 at Compass Rehabilitation Hospital of Columbus, Columbus, GA.
A Memorial Service Celebration for Mr. Willie B. McCarden, Jr., will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 12:00(noon) in the sanctuary of the Bethlehem Baptist Church, 1111 E. 10th Street, West Point, Georgia with Reverend Travis Porter, Pastor, Eulogist, Minister Debra McCarden, assisting.
Willie Bernard McCarden of West Point Georgia, passed away on December 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, ambition, and devotion to family.
Born on August 31, 1946, Willie B lived a life marked by love, strength , kindness, faith, and dedication. Willie was deeply devoted to his family, career, community, faith and passions and touched the lives of all who he knew.
Willie proudly served in the United States Army, where he demonstrated courage and sacrifice in service to his country. In recognition of his bravery, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an honor that reflected both his strength and commitment to others.
Later in life, Willie relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where his life took on new meaning and purpose. It was there that he met the love of his life, Annies Smith-McCarden, with whom he shared over 45 years of marriage built on love, partnership, and mutual respect.
A true entrepreneur, Willie B was a visionary businessman with a strong work ethic and determination. Throughout his life, he successfully owned and operated multiple businesses, including restaurants, a tax business, a liquor store, and real estate ventures. His drive extended beyond business—he held a deep passion for community involvement and leadership, which led him to pursue political aspirations, including running for Mayor of West Point, motivated by his desire to make a meaningful impact.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie B. McCarden, Sr. and Eula Mae Billingslea; siblings, Peggy Adcock, SuVrenda Van Summers, Victoria Billingslea, Dora McCarden, Eddie B. McCarden, Jr. and Johnny Barrett.
Willie is survived by his three children Jamaal, Justin and Erica McCarden who will forever cherish his wisdom, resilience, and unwavering dedication to family and community; siblings Albert McCarden, Brenda McCarden, Bessie Williams, Kathy Billingslea and Jeffery Billingslea; aunts, uncles, an array of nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of other relatives and friends.
He will be remembered as a man of honor, perseverance, and vision—someone who lived boldly, served faithfully, and loved deeply. His legacy will continue to live on through the lives he touched and the example he set.
Those who knew Willie will remember him for his unwavering love, infectious laugh, generosity and wisdom. Willie's memory will live on through the countless lives he impacted.
Arrangement entrusted to M. W. Lee Mortuary
Send flowers to the service of Willie B. McCarden
Sending heartfelt condolences to the family. Mr. McCarden was a very motivated man. May your hearts heal with memories of love when thinking about your loved one.
My condolences goes out to the family!
Sending love, light and prayers of comfort to the family. It was always my pleasure to be in the presence of Bernard and Annies. I will cherish those memories.
In loving memory of my great uncle Bernard, who left us last month. Though I didn't know him well for most of my life, I cherish the moments we shared later on. His warmth and wisdom touched my heart, reminding me of the importance of family and connection. May his spirit inspire us to embrace our loved ones and create lasting memories. Rest in peace, Uncle Bernard. You will be missed.
Rest in peace Uncle Bernard. You will be missed. Please kiss and hug Sis. Young for the family 🙏🏾🪽.
Love,
Mike B.
Rest In Peace Uncle Bernard 🧡
When I got the news Wednesday I couldn't believe it! My Uncle Bernard has left us too soon!! Although my heart is heavy in knowing the pain that my family is going though, my spirit is at peace in knowing that you are resting in a place where there is no more worldly worries or pain. When I close my eyes and just imagine the family reunion table that is being prepared for the love ones that have gone before you...it cheers my heart to know that you are there with them. Uncle tell everyone that I love them and I still pull from memories and lessons that they left with me. Thank you Uncle for running your race like a true warrior. Thank you for being uniquely you!! Rest in peace!!! Oh... and tell Po to send me the recipe for that sweet potato pie, again:-) Love you, your niece CherBae
We love you and we will truly miss you Uncle Bernard. Rest in peace.🫶🏽🙏🏽
We love you Uncle Bernard. I would like to thank you for the blessing that you gave my son Amir!!!! RIP🙏🙏🙏
Rest in peace Uncle B. You will be missed. Gone too soon. Now you and Auntie can be together again. It's hard pill to swallow, not getting a chance to say goodbye. Love you. Until we meet again.
RIP Uncle Bernard from Teresa, Tiffany, Taylor & Amir
So very sorry to hear this about Mr. Willie B. but may God continue to see this family through this difficult time. My prayers and condolences to the family. Augusta Bryant
So very sorry to hear of the home going of your loved one. Praying that God will give you peace and comfort at this difficult time. Condolences to the family 🙏🏽🙏🏽
Losing a loved one is incredibly painful, and very personal.
Creating an online memorial for Willie B. McCarden is more than sharing stories—it's a step toward healing. A space where memories live on, grief finds expression, and love is never forgotten.
Memorials on ForeverMissed.com help preserve the beauty of a life well-lived. Share stories, photos, and moments that mattered—and let them be remembered.