March 21, 2025, 90, Goldsboro —
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mother Willie J. Valines, 90, who completed her earthly journey on Friday, March 21, 2025 surrounded by loved one. The homegoing celebration will be held on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 12:00 noon with a viewing from 11:00am to 11:50 am St. Mark Church of Christ, Disciples of Christ, 700 W. Ash Street, Goldsboro, NC. She will be laid to rest at 2:00pm at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 164 Longs Plant Farm Road, Goldsboro, NC.
Willie Lee Robinson Valines, born on July 2, 1934, in Smoaks, South Carolina, was the first child of Willie and Alma Jenkins. Her journey began in the quaint town of Smoaks, where she spent her early years before moving to Selma, North Carolina. In Selma, Willie attended elementary and high school, graduating in 1957 from Richard B. Harrison High School. Willie’s pursuit of knowledge led her to Elizabeth City State Teachers College, now known as Elizabeth City State University. It was here that she met and married Osie Cornelius Robinson. Together, they moved to Goldsboro, where they were married for 35 years until his death in 1993. Willie embarked on her noble teaching career at her beloved high school alma mater, Richard B. Harrison High School, instilling wisdom and nurturing young minds. Her passion for education continued at Northern Wayne Junior High, where she devoted 32 years to guiding her students. Even after retirement, Willie’s love for teaching persisted as she continued to impart knowledge at Wayne Community College. Her unwavering commitment to education and the betterment of her community was a testament to her character and spirit. Willie was not only a dedicated teacher but also an active and cherished member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, the Continental Society, and St. Mark Church of Christ. At St. Mark, she served fervently as Vacation Bible School Director and Teacher, Religious Education Committee chair, choir member, Girl Scout Cookie chair, Sheperd’s Care, Senior greeter, and church mother, just to name a few roles, fostering a sense of community and faith. In 2001, Willie found love once more when she met Joseph Forrest Valines. Their connection blossomed into a beautiful marriage, filled with mutual respect, affection, and shared memories. For 23 years, Joseph stood by Willie’s side, supporting her endeavors and cherishing every moment together. This new chapter in Willie’s life brought her immense joy and companionship, further enriching her already remarkable journey. Willie was known for her deep love of gardening, where she spent countless hours tending to her vibrant flowers and lush plants, finding peace and joy in the simple act of nurturing life. Her talent extended to sewing, a skill she honed to perfection, crafting beautiful garments that were not only functional but also works of art cherished by her family and friends. In the kitchen, Willie was famous for her delectable chocolate cake, a family favorite that could bring smiles to faces with just a single bite. Her culinary skills were a true reflection of her love and care, always ensuring that everyone around her felt nourished and loved. One of the greatest highlights of Willie’s life was having her family close. Her face would light up at the sight and sound of laughter, fellowship, and shared love amongst her children, grandchildren, and extended family. Family gatherings were a source of immense joy for Willie, where her warmth and affection were felt by all. The happiness she derived from these moments was palpable, further testament to her loving and generous nature. In addition to her parents, Willie was predeceased by a brother, Harris Jenkins, Sr., and a brother-in-law Herbert Mott, Sr. Willie leaves to cherish her memory her beloved husband, Joseph Forrest Valines.
She also leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and dedication through her four children: Orlando (Carolina), LaShawn, LaTriece (Deondra), and LaWillette (Jonathan). Grandchildren: Jasmine Bethea, Dondra McMillan, Dominique McMillan, Angel McMillan, Nicholas Wilkins, Kaleb Wilkins, and Matthew Wilkins. She is survived by her brothers, Jimmy (Faleese), Nathaniel (Celestine), and Linwood (Denise), as well as her sisters, Dorothy Mott and Alma Faye Jenkins, and sister-in-law, Mary Jenkins; a special niece, Betty Jean Campbell. Her memory will forever be etched in the hearts of her family, friends, students, and community. In celebrating the life of Willie Lee Jenkins Valines, we honor her remarkable journey, her tireless dedication to education, her profound faith, and the love she shared with all those who had the privilege to know her. Her legacy will continue to inspire and her love will remain with us always.
Services of caring, compassionate and distinguished class entrusted to J.B. Rhodes Funeral Home & Cremations of Goldsboro.
