Willie Pointer

Willie Pointer was born October 31, 1933, to the union of Annie Mae and Floyd Pointer, Sr. in Forrest City, Arkansas. Willie was the eldest of four children born of this union.  His parents, sister, Mae Ella Presley and youngest brother Lee Edward Pointer preceded him in death.

Floyd Pointer, Sr. and his four children moved to Chicago, Illinois during the migration period to achieve the American dream.  Willie attended school and he began working at an early age doing various jobs.

He married Minnie Hart, and together they had nine children before Minnie’s passing. Later, Willie married Minnie Mae Gates, with whom he had two children; she also preceded him in death. Three of his children, Linda, Wilbur, and Willie—passed away earlier as well. Willie worked at Rock-ola Mfg. Company for 30 years as a machinist assembling juke boxes and stereos until they relocated. He was then employed at Wilton Tools as a machinist for 23 years until he retired during the summer of 2001.

A lover of the outdoors, Willie enjoyed hunting with friends in his youth and spent many summers fishing—a pastime he cherished deeply, often staying by the water from morning into night. After acquiring a boat, he relished being out on the lake, often bringing his children and grandchildren along for family outings. Dancing was another passion; his signature “stepping” move was both smooth and tireless.

In retirement, Willie joined activities at the Columbus Park Senior Organization, spending time riding his motorcycle or truck to the park and socializing with friends until his health declined.

Willie went to eternity on November 6, 2025, at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County.

He leaves to cherish his memories 11 children:  Viola Dooley, Tanya Hart, Michelle Hart, Carolyn Hart, Yvette Pointer, Brenda Pointer, Kim Pointer, Kimberly Brown (Terry), Beverly Pointer Visor (Allen), Floyd Pointer, and Elmarie Point-er; 5 grandchildren:  Camille, Steven, Tiara, Devonte, and Elijawon; 12 great grandchildren; one brother Floyd Pointer, Jr.; one niece Gail Cook (Booker); one nephew, and a host of cousins, relatives, and friends.

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