Willie A Fields

Willie A. Fields of Daytona Beach, Florida passed away on Friday, December 23, 2022, at the age of 90.  Pinello Funeral Home Staff extends their deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Fields.

WILLIE AUSTIN FIELDS was born in Ocala Florida, on May 22, 1932, as the 10th child of General E. Fields and Rhodia Fields Emziah. He is predeceased by both his parents and his 9 siblings. He is also predeceased by his son Joe Earl Fields, Sr. (Dianne).

He graduated Campbell High School (“Old Campbell”) in 1952 where he developed his love of music and discovered his talent on a B flat Tenor Saxophone. From high school he was provided a music scholarship to Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) where he was a member of the original FAMU Marching !00. His college years were interrupted by the draft and in 1954 he began serving in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. In 1957 Willie graduated from FAMU with a Bachelor of Science Degree.

Willie taught in the Florida public school system for 30 years, teaching math and music. His real love was music, so he especially enjoyed being the band director at Campbell High for many years, playing in a local band in the 1960’s and 70’s named Abe and The Fabulous House Rockers and, after retirement, giving free lessons on the saxophone, flute, clarinet, oboe, trumpet and trombone.

He met his wife, Edna, while at FAMU and On September 10, 1954, they married. Willie and his bride Edna enjoyed 68 fabulous years of marriage where they traveled, entertained friends, and raised their 2 children.

Willie leaves to honor his life and cherish his beautiful memories a daughter Dawn “Pam” Fields Ngala (Baraka), a son Keith Fields, a granddaughter Keisha Washington, who he called, “Grandbaby”, granddaughter Alexandra Davis, who he called “Grandbaby Allie” and a grandson Nicholas A. Fields, who he called “Grandbaby Austin.”

He also leaves to cherish his memories a host of wonderful family members including nieces and nephews, former students, St. Timothy’s’ Church members where he served in various position, neighbors, classmates and a host of others he met and befriended along the way.

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