Willie Lee McCloud

Willie Lee McCloud, a loving mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, and friend, went home in the arms of her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born on February 29, 1940, in Glen White, West Virginia, she was the daughter of the late Sidney and Mary Morrison.

On March 11, 1961, Willie married Sammie Lee McCloud Jr., and together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family. In 1965, Willie and Sammie became the first Black family to purchase a home on Golden Rod Lane in Henrietta, NY, a proud and historic moment for their family. Shortly after settling there, they welcomed two children-Sherry and James-who became the center of her world.

Willie worked as a Nursing Assistant at the University of Rochester before becoming a stay-at-home wife and mother. When she later re-entered the workforce, she combined her love for children with her entrepreneurial spirit, opening a daycare in her home. She remained self-employed for 18 years, caring for countless neighborhood children, many of whom still remember her with affection and gratitude.

At the age of 21, Willie was baptized and began a lifelong walk of faith. She was a dedicated member of Faith Temple Church, where she served as a catechism counselor, offering guidance and support to others on their spiritual journey.

Willie had a warm and creative spirit. She enjoyed cooking, painting, gardening, and listening to Southern Gospel music. Most of all, she treasured time spent with her family, whom she loved deeply.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Sammie L. McCloud Jr.; her son, James H. McCloud; her parents, Sidney and Mary Morrison; her brothers, Daniel, George, and Julius Morrison; and her sisters, San Antonia Linsey, Marva Mitchell, Dora-Dean Kendrick, and Vivian Morrison.

She leaves to mourn her passing, her daughter, Sherry McCloud-Ortiz; Grandchildren: Kayle Ortiz of Rochester, NY, and Michael (Ainsley) Ortiz of Kansas City, KS; Great-granddaughter: Ellyana Grace Ortiz; Stepdaughter: Cindy Shaw; Brother: James (Rosalyn) Morrison all of Rochester, NY; Sisters: Jewell Richardson of Miami, FL; Sydney Morrison, Callie Henderson, and Carrie Morrison, all of Rochester, NY; Brother-in-law: Floyd Mitchell; Sister-in-law: Elsie Morrison; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and dear friends.

Willie also leaves behind special friends Brenda and Harry Burgess, who visited her faithfully, as well as lifelong friends Rosa Morris and Ruby Baker, both of Henrietta.

Willie's legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and faith. She will be deeply missed, but her life will be celebrated by all who had the honor of knowing her.

May she rest peacefully in the heavenly hands that hold her now.

Acknowledgement
The Family of the late Willie Lee McCloud is deeply appreciative for each act of kindness and all the demonstrations of love and support shown during their time of bereavement. A very special thank you to all the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care.