Willie Humbles Hutcherson

Mrs. Willie Annice Humbles Hutcherson, 94, of Lynchburg, transitioned to eternal rest on Thursday, November 1, 2012 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law.

 She was born on Saturday, May 18, 1918 at 2460 Campbell Avenue. She was the daughter of the late Alphonso, Sr. and Celindia Wright Humbles. Willie was the eighth of their ten children and the granddaughter of Adolphus and Rosamond Swift Humbles and Ben and Mollie Harris Wright. Willie was predeceased by all of her siblings, Josephine H. Kyles, Bessie H. Burke, Evelyn N. Humbles, baby Alphonso, Jr., Mabel H. Gordon, Mary G. Humbles, Adolphus Humbles, III, Clifton C. Humbles, and Gladys H. Cater. In addition, she was preceded in death by the love of her life, Robert A. Thompson.

 Willie leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted and loving daughter, Mary Carol H. Cabell and son-in-law, Dr. Jasper T. Cabell, Jr. of Lynchburg and her adoring granddaughter, Cortney Heather-Annice Cabell, M. D. of Clarksville, TN. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Marie C. Humbles of Accomac, VA., as well as nieces, nephews, friends, and the children of varying ages whose lives she so beautifully touched.

 At an early age, Willie confessed her abiding faith in God and was baptized at Eighth Street Baptist Church. She remained steadfast in her faith that gave her such courage and the will to live until the end.

 Coming from a creative mother complete with siblings with diverse talents, it was almost inevitable that Willie would find her own creative niche in the family. Early in her life, she began her lifelong love for sewing and doing so meticulously and with exactness. By the time she was a preteen, she was sewing her own clothes. Willie was a 1938 graduate of Dunbar High School, where she demonstrated her proclivity for her outstanding ability. On several occasions, even her Home Economics teacher would ask her advice or require her technique for sewing various items. Her ability was indeed respected. She was a national Singer Talon Zipper Award recipient for sewing. Being an impeccable perfectionist, she was encouraged by her sister, Bess to enroll in The Pratt Institute of Design. She decided to matriculate at Bennett College in Greensboro, NC. and major in Home Economics. Although she loved sewing (creating) as well as the challenges thereof, she realized it was not what she expected to do for her vocation. Sewing was to be reserved for herself and family. She returned to Lynchburg, married and eventually gave birth to her daughter, whom she referred to as \"her paper doll.\" The marriage ended in divorce after three years and Willie took on the task of child-rearing with the assistance of her family. She eventually substituted in the Lynchburg Public Schools. In 1953, she commenced her career at Bethune Nursery School, Inc. as a teacher. Demonstrating capability, leadership, and the care of children, as well as talent, she was promoted to lead teacher where she taught the 4\"™s class. In 1971, she became the director and initiated the USDA Federal Food Program that continued long after her retirement on August 31, 1989. She provided the children in care with unconditional love, warmth, and nutrition required for growth. She along with her mother collaborated making the comforters and sheets for the sleeping cots for the duration of her time at BNS.

 Willie and her sister Mary G. were charter members of the Let\"™s Do Club, a social organization. Throughout the years, they gave wonderful gatherings that were enjoyed by all in attendance.

 Willie was a charter member of the initial Lynchburg Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. that was organized in 1947. She attended the national and regional assemblies as a delegate. She always hosted beautiful and unique parties for her daughter while in the Jack and Jill, not to mention the special parties she gave for her throughout her years in high school. She gave her every opportunity to grow by example into a responsible adult.

 Willie had a special charm and was known for her style and demeanor. She was a stickler for good taste and appropriate attire for any occasion. Gloves and purse as accessories were her trademarks when really dressed to the max.

 Willie Annice Humbles Hutcherson was definitely an amazing, phenomenal woman who consistently was responsible, caring, devoted and faithful to her beliefs. Her word was her bond.

 The family wishes to extend appreciation to Centra Hospice and Generation Solutions for the care of our loved one.

 A memorial service will be conducted on Sunday, November 4, 2012 at 2:00 pm in the chapel at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg with Reverend Dr. Tom Bryant officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

 

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg (434-237-9424) is assisting the family.