Leona Minfield Willie

It is with deep sorrow and yet profound gratitude for a life beautifully lived, that we announce the passing of our beloved Leona Branch Willie on July 23, 2026. Born on March 3, 1946, in New York, Leona graced this world with her vibrant presence for 80 wonderful years. She was the cherished daughter of Robert and Louise Branch, who predeceased her, along with her sister Suzette Branch, brother Ricky Branch, and her loving husband, Ernest Willie. Leona's life was a tapestry of love, adventure, and dedication. She graduated from Pocatello High School in 1964, and soon after, on March 31, 1964, she married Jimmy Minfield. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey as a military family in the Navy, living across the country but ultimately settling in Honolulu, Hawaii, where they raised their family. Later in life, Leona found love again and married Ernest Willie, a Marine, on June 15, 2015, in San Diego, California. Their years together were filled with joy and companionship. As a devoted military wife, Leona excelled in various civil service roles in Hawaii and California, contributing her talents and dedication to her community. Her quick wit, warm smile, and infectious laughter were the hallmarks of her personality, leaving an indelible impression on everyone she met. Leona had a rare gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and her kindness, loving nature, and unyielding generosity enriched countless lives. Leona was also known for her passion for bingo, skillfully managing 15 or more cards at a time, and her love for casinos, where she often emerged victorious at the slots and keno. Her zest for life and high spirit could brighten any room and ease any mood. Leona leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her daughter Raquel Miller (Joe), her son Nolan Minfield, her sisters Rita Branch-Davis and Stephanie Branch-Hesleph (Jackie), her brother Robert Branch (Dawn), and her stepson Everette Willie. She was a proud grandmother to LaShiya Minfield, Raymond Banks, Niya Minfield, Nolan Minfield, Marcel Minfield, and Nevaeha Minfield, and a great-grandmother to Brea Miller, Kali Perry, and Courtlynn Banks. She is also survived by her last living aunt, Dr. Bobbie Branch, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were like family. She loved life, her family and friends dearly A celebration of Leona's life will be held on August 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Greenwood Memorial Park and Mortuary, located at 4300 Imperial Ave, San Diego, CA. On August 13, a viewing will be held from 4-5pm for the Immediate Family. and from 5-8pm for All Others. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all of Leona's amazing caregivers and friends who supported her through her health challenges. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Leona's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, as a tribute to her generous spirit and love for children. Leona's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever remain a guiding light in our lives.