Willie Gilchrist

Mrs. Willie McDonald Gilchrist, 82, of Statesville, passed away Monday, December 22, 2014, at the Gordon Hospice House following an extended illness. Mrs. Gilchrist was born on January 3, 1932, in Harnett County, NC and was the daughter of the late William H. McDonald and Susan M. McDonald. She was a graduate of Anderson Creek High School and was married to Wade H. Gilchrist for over 50 years. He preceded her in death. Mrs. Gilchrist was a member of Oakland Presbyterian Church and retired as office manager for Carnation Milk Company. In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Gilchrist was preceded in death by her son, Allen W. Gilchrist. Willie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister. She was a warm and caring friend to many. Her gentle nature, soft laughter, and pleasant smile will be missed by all. "Miss Willie" will be especially missed by the remaining members of the Do-Nothing Club as well as the Monday Night Supper Club. Left to cherish her memory are two daughters, Carol G. Johnson (Danny) and Nancy Gilchrist along with one grandson, Seth Johnson (Liz) and great-granddaughter, Sarah Johnson, all of Statesville. She is also survived by two brothers, Ishmael McDonald (Clara) of Vass and Hugh McDonald (Nell) of Lillington, NC; two brothers-in-law, Charles Gilchrist and Ray Gilchrist(Alice), both of Sanford, NC and sisters-in-law, Catherine Gilchrist of Fuquay-Varina, NC and Betty Lou Gilchrist of Fayetteville, NC. A private family burial will be conducted at Oakwood Cemetery. A service to celebrate the life of Willie Gilchrist will be conducted at 12:00 pm Wednesday, December 24, 2014, at Oakland Presbyterian Church with Rev. Steve Snipes officiating. The family requests memorials in honor of Willie Gilchrist be made to Oakland Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 5362, Statesville, NC 28687. Online condolences can be made to the family at www.nicholsonfunerals.com/obituaries and Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.