Willie Lee Hope, Sr.

Willie Lee Hope Sr. formerly of Pocomoke City, Maryland departed this life on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Futurecare-Irvington in Baltimore, Maryland born on February 12, 1965, in Bradenton, Florida, to the late Jenette Hope.

He was educated through the Florida school system before relocating to Maryland in 1985, where he would build his life, establish lasting friendships, and create countless memories with his family.

Willie was employed by Mid Atlantic Seafood Company, WKW Construction, and worked alongside Mr. Clarence Heath.

Willie was a man of faith and found joy in being a part of the church. He was a member of John Wesley Cottage Grove and later joined Samuel Wesley UMC. He loved to sing in church and could often be heard singing his favorite song, “Sending Up My Timber.” His love for music and fellowship was a special part of who he was and a memory that will remain with those who knew and loved him.

Throughout his life, Willie was known for his love of working out, listening to music, singing and, most importantly, his ability to have a good time. He had a personality that allowed him to enjoy life and make memories with the people around him.

Above all, Willie was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend who cherished his family. He had a special relationship with his grandchildren and created memories that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. He taught his grandchildren how to ride their bikes, took them trick-or-treating, and even took the girls’ braids out when needed. These moments may seem simple, but they represent the love, time, and care he gave to his family.

Willie leaves to cherish his memory with his ex-wife, Dawn Hitch Hope of Pocomoke, MD; his daughters, Ebony Hitch (Sinclair) of     Pocomoke, Katerra Lemon (Charles) of Brooklyn, NY, Kutrese Hope (Lamarquis) of Salisbury, MD, Tasha Prater and Lakesha Banks of Florida; stepdaughter, Essence Richardson of Salisbury; his sons, Willie Hope, Jr. of Salisbury and Coleus Pate of Florida; stepson, Wendell Hitch, Jr. of Salisbury; his sisters, Denise Miller and Mattlen Wortham of Florida; his brother-in-law, Wendell Hitch, Sr. of Pocomoke; his friend/brother, Marvin “Sonny” Roundtree of Princess Anne; his mother-in-law, Ms. Helen Hitch of Pocomoke; a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jenette Hope.

Willie will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and    loving him. His laughter, his singing, his love of life, and the memories he   created with his family will continue to live on. Though he is no longer with us physically, the love he gave and the lives he touched will forever remain a part of his legacy.

Rest peacefully, Willie. Your work here is done, and your memory will live on in the hearts of those who love you.

A Memorial service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Anthony E. Ward, Jr. Funeral Home in Princess Anne.