Willie Capers

On February 10, 1933 in Claiborne Parish, Louisiana, Robert Scott and Lizzie Love Webb welcomed Willie Lee Capers into the world. His mother married Dick Capers and he and his sister Eula Faye Capers were raised under his tender care.  Both fathers, and mother preceded him in death. Also proceeding him are sisters Dorothy Aguilar, Wilma Lewis and grandson Anthony W. Page

Willie, affectionately called Ray, was a storyteller and loved to share his life stories with anyone that would listen. His memories of days gone by were not diminished by his aging. He was raised in the country and was proud of it. He would say, “money was scarce as hen’s teeth, but we always had plenty of food.” He often shared how he would have to plant and harvest the crops which was hard work. His education was set aside to work in the fields.

Desiring a better life, Willie left Louisiana in 1951 and headed for Kansas City at the suggestion of a cousin. He had been promised employment once he arrived. The day he arrived in Kansas City, he went to work at a restaurant in the downtown area. Since he didn’t know how to ride the streetcar, he walked to work daily. He was that dedicated to making life in the city work. He said to himself that “if I ever get a dollar I will squeeze it so tight it would make the eagle grin.” He worked for the Kansas City Park and Recreation Department and remained there until he retired after 39 years.

In 1958 he met the love of his life, Bertha Mae Wattree in Kansas City, Missouri. Together they raised two children, Yvonne and Donald. Donald preceded them in death. Most would say they were inseparable, if you saw one you saw the other. He wanted her by his side until “death did they part” in 2017. His love for his family reigned supreme and it trickled down to each generation. He was affectionately called “Dad” by his children, and “PawPaw” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love for family was so great he raised a great niece, Meia McKinney (Walsh) from a young age.

Willie had many hobbies such as gardening, playing the guitar, and fishing.  His love for gardening came from growing up with his mother. His favorite things to grow were tomatoes. He would say his mother’s soup made with home grown tomatoes was the best soup he’s ever had. His love for the guitar came in handy when playing with the Heaven Bound Travelers, playing gospel music was a real charge for him. Fishing was something he could do daily if allowed. Crappie and Bluegill were his favorite catches. He not only had skill but patience to endure fishing with an “old timer”.

Willie’s love for God came from the teachings of his mother as a young child.  He joined Jamison Temple where there were several members of his family in attendance. It was there he sang in the male chorus which was a treat for him. He was always excited when it was time for the men to sing.  He was a member there for over 40 years.  From there, with his wife, he joined Friendship Baptist Church on April 4, 2006 under the leadership of Pastor James A. Terrance, Jr. Singing with the male chorus was a priority.  He was a member of the Asher Sheepfold and Sunday School. Sharing the love of Jesus was a main concern and he never failed to share it with anyone he could.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his daughter, Yvonne Page (Anthony); granddaughter Talya Page, who loved and cared for him during his illness; great-grandson Biruk Amare; great-granddaughter NaTalya Page; special niece Meia Walsh (Bennie). Brothers, Marvin Capers, Homer, Louisiana; Welton Capers, Haynesville, Louisiana; and Bill Capers (Barbara Jean), Shreveport, Louisiana.  Sisters: Martha Summers, Minden, Louisiana, and Rosie Marks, Royse, Texas.  Along with a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and dear friends.