Willie Eddie Cater was born July 22, 1941 in Decatur, Alabama to the late James Henry Cater and Hattie Mae Cater (nee Harper). He was the second of three children. Willie lived between Cleveland, Ohio and Decatur, Alabama starting in 1949. He moved permanently to Cleveland, Ohio in the mid 1950’s and lived with his father and step mother, Mary E. Cater.
Willie, affectionately known as “Ed” to close family and friends accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized in the Tennessee River. He was educated in the Cleveland Public School System where he studied horticulture at East Technical High School. Upon completing high school he was hired by the Board of Education as a facilities coordinator. He worked at John F. Kennedy for the majority of his Career. Willie retired after 30+ years of service, however continued working for the Board of Education assisting with the athletic programs throughout the city. Willie also worked as an auxiliary police for many years throughout the city of Cleveland.
Willie married Mary A. Womack in 1963 and from this union they had four children. Willie enjoyed gardening, cooking, and attending everyone’s cookouts, parties, and get togethers. Willie joined the Eureka lodge #52 on 11/22/69 and became a member of El Hasa temple in 1970. He was proud to be a Mason and was active until his death.
Willie began his eternal rest on September 3, 2020. He was preceded in death by his sister Ollie D. Marshall and his son Eddie Cater. Willie is survived by his son Ricardo Cater and two daughters Erika Cater and Robin Cater; 7 grandchildren, Raven, Gregory, Erik, Brenda, Gianni, Shayla, Shalila; 6 great-grandchildren; brother David Cater; brother-in-law Eddie Marshall, and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
PLEASE PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING AND WEAR YOUR MASK AT THE SERVICES. THANK YOU.
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