On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Willie James Campbell, beloved husband to the late wife, (Joanne), father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, peacefully passed away in Douglasville, Georgia surrounded by his beloved family. Born on May 10, 1942, in Meridan, Mississippi. Deacon Campbell was preceded in death by his parents Annie Ross Travis and Lewis Campbell; his wife; and two brothers.

He joined the United States Army at the age of twenty-six and proudly served his country for twenty years, in locations such as Vietnam, Hawaii, South Korea, Germany, just to name a few. During his honorable service and into retirement, Deacon Campbell and his late wife shared a love of travel , exploring the world together while raising their family. He found joy in traveling, gardening, listening to gospel music, playing checkers and watching TV Westerns.

His spiritual journey began at an early age of being baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Gulfport, Mississippi. He located a church home and served faithfully at every duty station during his military career. After retirement, he continued to serve as a dedicated member and Deacon at the Greater Thankful Baptist Church, Anniston, Alabama, and later, at Mt. Prospect Baptist Church, Villa, Rica, Georgia.

Deacon Campbell's love for his family was unmatched. On June 4, 1972, he married the love of his life affectionately known as "Baby " and they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised four daughters and one son. Deacon Campbell leaves behind a legacy of love and memories to be cherished by his children: Sharon (Earl) Key of Douglasville, GA; Sherell (Johnny) Daniels of Conyers, GA; Kenneth (Shelia) Campbell of Baton Rouge, LA; Sonja (Abdul) Shabazz of Stone Mountain, GA; and Sophia (Dorian) Ore of Jonesboro, AR. He is also survived by his siblings: Gertha Matthews of Gulfport, Mississippi; Johnnie (Mary) Campbell of Miami, Florida; Fred (Belinda) Campbell of Gulfport, Mississippi; and Ruth (Charles) Breaux of Ft. Worth, Texas. Deacon Campbell's loving legacy continues through his eleven (11) grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many dear friends.