Willie Franklin Rawlinson, 54, of Ansonia St., departed from this life to his eternal home on Wednesday, March 25, 2015. He was born January 6, 1961 to the late Henry James Rawlinson and Elsie Dobson Rawlinson Smith in Forsyth County, North Carolina.

Willie, as he was affectionately known as "fat boy" attended and graduated from the local Winston-Salem Forsyth County Public School System. At an early age he was affiliated with Galilee Baptist Church where he was also baptized. During his earthly walk he held various jobs: RJ Reynolds, Sears Automotive Service, Parrish Tires and Dean's Tire Service. He was currently employed with Home Improvement Services. Willie will always be remembered by his family as a jack of all trades and for his ability to work on cars.

He leaves to cherish her memory his sons: Elder Corey (Tarica) Rawlinson, Carlos and Chris Rawlinson all of Durham; his beloved mother Elsie Dobson Smith of Philadelphia, PA; a devoted fiance Shelia Thames of the home; sister Felicia (James) Talford of Winston-Salem; four brothers: Henry James Rawlinson, Jr., Pastor Reginald (Carolyn) Rawlinson, Sr., Charles Rawlinson all of Winston-Salem, and Paul Rawlinson of Mocksville, NC; two grandchildren: Cory Jr., and Christian Rawlinson of Durham; two aunts: Patricia Patton of York, SC; Priscilla Rawlinson of Winston-Salem; four uncles: Charlie Dobson; Richard Hamilton; Richard Little John all of Winston-Salem; Paul Dobson of Yadkinville, NC and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his father Henry James Rawlinson.