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Willie Maples Obituary
ASHEVILLE - Willie Lee Maples Sr. 68, of 1 Battle Square, died Friday, April 15, 2011.
"Maples" as he was fondly called by friends, was a native of Harrisburg, Pa. and a son of the late Samuel Maples and Beulah Miller Dawson.
He attended Stephens-Lee High School and was a member of the basketball team which won the 1962 state championship. Maples was named to the All-State team along with teammate Henry Logan.
Maples continued to excel in basketball and became a professional basketball player as a member of the Harlem Stars, Harlem Globetrotters, Kentucky Colonels of the ABA and Hazelton Bullets of the EBA. His basketball career enable him to travel around the world and acquire a visionary perspective of life.
Maples had a unique persona, in the way he carried himself. He walked straight, tall and with pride. His conversation mirrored his physical attributes and often included a phrase of surprise and words of wisdom.
He is survived by several sons and daughters; grandchildren; cousins; other relatives and friends.
Public viewing will be 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday. A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday in the Chapel of Ray & Allen Funeral Service with Bishop Hill officiating.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Willie Maples
Nathaniel L. Felder
April 27, 2011
Willie Maples was one of the most knowledgeable athletes with whom I had the pleasure to play and learn from during my basketball playing years. He left a great legacy to the basketball players of his era. May he rest in peace. His uniqueness will always be remembered.
Larry Linney
April 27, 2011
Maples was the "yardstick" that many aspiring basketball players, myself included, measured their talent. He was a mentor to me. Over the years, I thanked him. And in passing, I say once more, "thanks Maples."
Barbara Blythe-Arends
April 25, 2011
Dear Cookie:
The number of unique persons is few. How much Willie will be missed. I am so sorry I did not find out until Tony and Wilonda came over yesterday. I am fortunate to have met him at the mall with Wilonda. I sincerely take your hand and pray with you. Mourning
takes some strong shoulders to carry it.
Love and Prayers
Barb Blythe-Arends
Sadie Sondgerath
April 24, 2011
You will be missed in the Asheville downtown area, Willie. We all loved you very much! You were a special man.
Sadie
LYNETTE HARPER
April 22, 2011
YOU HAVE CONQUERED ONE JOURNEY.NOW ITS TIME FOR THE NEXT.. REST IN PEACE.
Nikki San Martino
April 22, 2011
May the peace and blessings always be upon Willie.He was well known in the Asheville community as a very friendly,kind,helpful,man offering words of encouragement and inspiration to those that he well knew.We always remember our love ones with dignity,love,great memories and respect.There are many days of warm,sunny days,warm,delightful rains and beautiful rainbows that keep the legacy of deep memories of our love ones close to our hearts.
Phyllis W,Green
April 21, 2011
Mape was a man of many facets.At each sparkle there were things that he let you in on. He had insight on many, many, things.We remained friends for many years. Rest in peace.
Tom Muncy
April 21, 2011
Willie Maples, along with his buddies Johnny Bailey, Bennie Lake and Henry Logan have imparted a tremendously positive impact upon the youth of Asheville who attended their annual summer basketball camps. They shared their talents and basketball experiences unselfishly with these young people, and will be remembered for the many good things they did for the community of Asheville.
April 21, 2011
Praying that sanctuary has been granted by the Creator...for a life in much need of rest.
Peace & Blessings - RC Nzingha - Cincinnati, Ohio
Kookie Springs
April 21, 2011
He lived his life with no regrets he said. Loved by many and will be missed by many. We will cherish the memories.
a greene
April 21, 2011
You will never be forgotten because you have left your mark on Asheville and the basketball world. You can now find the peace you have sought after.
April 21, 2011
I am very sorry to hear about "Maples". He was a very nice person who lived an adventuresome life. "Mapes" Rest In Peace. ... "SCORE" ...
Ken Brandon
Bill Grindstaff
April 21, 2011
I had the honor to get to know Mr Maples recently and am touched by his passing. Most sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Bill Grindstaff, RN
anonymous
April 21, 2011
You will always hold a special place in my heart and only you and I know why. May you rest in peace
LULA FEASTER
April 21, 2011
WILLIE LEE MAY YOU REST IN PEACE
LUVENIA FEASTER
April 21, 2011
WHO IS NO.1 --THATS RIGHT WILLIE MAPLES SR..HE LIVED THE LIFE THAT ALL CAN TALK ABOUT AND WAS PROUD OF IT!!!!!!!
Jessica Downs
April 21, 2011
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
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