Willie Lee Porchia Sr.

Willie Lee Porchia Sr., 88, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on April 26, 1937, in Camden, Arkansas, to Clara Mae Isom Johnson and O.D. Porchia. He attended schools in Camden, Ark.  

Willie was united in marriage to his beloved wife, Janice Porchia, for 65 years. He was a life long member of Second Christian Church and a dedicated worker who retired from Quaker Oats and Camcar Textron. In his leisure time, Willie enjoyed fishing, bowling, and hunting. He was known as an excellent cook and had a special gift for gardening—his hands seemed to bring life to everything he planted.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Janice Porchia;  his children: Larry (Pertina) Porchia, Deborah Guidry, Jeanette (Francis) Curry, Sandra Porchia Lipsey, Chantrel (Terrell) Johnson, Eric (Jacqueline) Porchia, and Yolanda (Deon) Hall;  his siblings: Esther Haney, Clarency Isom, Mack Isom, Ollie Isom, Minnie Isom, Otis D. (Gail) Porchia, Phillip Porchia; and sister-in-law Rosie Porchia. 

He is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, Clara Mae Isom Johnson and O.D. Porchia; his sister, Eddie Mae McDaniel; his brothers, Henry L. Johnson, James L. Porchia Sr.;  son, Willie Lee Porchia Jr.;  daughter-in-law Wanda Porchia and sister-in-law Vickie Isom. 

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