“When we take the wires of a cage apart, we do not hurt the bird we help it. We let it out of its prison. So, it is when death comes to one who has suffered.” One beautiful day in Bamberg, South Carolina Willie James Rumph was born on October 11, 1934 to the late Jim and Mazie Rumph. He was the eldest of two children. He received his education in the Public Schools of Bamberg, South Carolina. Growing up in a Christian home he accepted Christ at an early age. In his early adulthood he migrated to New York. Soon after relocating to New York Willie met and married the love of his life Elizabeth Hamilton, together for more than 60 years. It was during this time that Willie was called to serve his country in the United States Army. Shortly after completing his Military duties Willie and Elizabeth became the proud parents of two beautiful children a son James who has preceded his father in death and their precious daughter Deidre who reside in the family home. For more than fifty years, Willie worked as a Construction Engineer with the New York City Highways/Bridges and Tunnel Department. He was a hardworking man who took great pride in his work. He was also a Chaplain and Pastmaster of the King David Lodge #9 A. F. & A. M. Seeking guidance from God, Willie joined the Sweet Rest Baptist Church, in Jamaica, New York under the leadership of Rev. Henry Conners. He loved his church. Willie was appointed Deacon and Chairman of the Board of Trustees. He truly enjoyed his membership there he loved his pastor and the members. Willie was a quiet man, a man of few words. He was a good listener and after listening he would guide and inspire you. He was honest, hardworking, trustworthy and dependable. He was a great husband and father. His friendships crossed all type of barriers. He was a true friend to all who knew him. Willie was in poor health for a while, but he never complained. He bore his illness patiently and always tried to make members of his family feel he was not suffering. On Wednesday, December 7, 2016 in the early morning hours God looked on Willie Rumph and whispered in his ear, servant of God, well done, the battle fought and the victory won. Willie’s legacy of love will forever live in the hearts of his loving Wife, Elizabeth, one daughter, Deidre, one brother, Tom Rumph, Sr. (Martha Mae) of Augusta, Georgia, four nephews, Thomas, Jr., Darryl, Zachary Frazier and J. Mark, cousin, Albertha Brown, of Jamaica, New York, his caregivers, Ms. Angel Jackson, Ms. Clementina Warren, Ms. Jeanette Quiroga and Mr. Jacob Brown, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and Sweet Rest Baptist Church Pastor and members.