Willena McGarrh Highsmith

Kellie was a dear friend in the 1980s with whom I remained close even after we both left Memphis. After 1995, I made it a habit to visit with Willena most times I visited my parents in Memphis. Often I brought lunch and we spent time reminiscing about Kellie and sharing our grief and love for her. It's been said that good news shared is doubled and bad news shared is halved. Willena was a source of comfort in those years, and even now, today, thirty years after Kellie left us. Missing...

What a beautiful and accomplished lady. A great supporter of the arts and music in Memphis. I am so grateful I knew her.

Her niece Kellie McGarrh and I went on a European tour back in the 80´s. Willena met us in Venice, Italy. Kellie and I had little money to spend. We were on a 4 month trek to 11 counties. Willena treated us to fancy dinners, tours and even let us hangout in her fancy hotel one night when she had plans. I have been in the restaurant business for 33+ years and she always followed my career. She wrote me wonderful supportive letters every time I opened a new establishment. She was a treasure...