"And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them." Revelation 14:13

Deacon Willie Sylvester Huntley, known as "Son" by his siblings, departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest on Friday, December 12, 2025.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He truly loved God, his family and his church.
Deacon Huntley was born on January 1, 1940 in Rowan County to the late Arthur C. and Zannie Rorie Huntley. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Rev. Mrs. Mary Estelle Mills Huntley; Sisters, Jessie Chambers and Annie Mae Mills; great-granddaughter, Makayla Huntley.

He was educated at Aggrey Memorial School, Landis NC. He was a hard worker and provider for his family. He retired from HBD, Industries after 30 years with perfect attendance. He was a man full of wisdom and always shared words of encouragement. He loved music, reading and his word search puzzles as he often spoke of his desire to "keep his mind sharp". He was an admirer of the "eagle" known for its powerful flight, soaring effortlessly on broad wings. Deacon Huntley was saved at an early age and served faithfully in ministry until his health declined.

He was a faithful member of Gray's Chapel Fire Baptized Holiness Church of the Central North Carolina District. He was a Local Minister and served as the Chairman Deacon and Sunday School Superintendent. He also served as the District Superintendent for the Central North Carolina District of the F.B.H. Church. He received an "Outstanding Service Award" from the Religious Education Department of the Central North Carolina District and the "Bishops Appreciation Award" in 2020 from the Board of Bishops of the F.B.H. Church of God of the Americas, Inc.

He leaves to cherish his memory, son, Mitchell Huntley; daughter, Cynthia Huntley, special daughter, Linda Huntley, 4 Grandchildren: Darnell (Ashlee), Terrell (Kemi), Bryan (Deitra), Shawntel (Orvane) 6 Great-GrandChildren: Malachi, Nolan, Roman, Jaden, Rorie and Jaxon. Brothers, Bobby Huntley and Lester Huntley; Sister-In-Laws, Joanne Sloan Huntley, Annie Smith Mills, Geraldine Witherspoon Mills, Annie Chambers Mills. A host of nieces,nephews, cousins, church family and many friends.

Funeral Services: Monday December 22, 12:00 at New Zion Baptist Church, burial will follow in Rowan Memorial Park, Family will recieve 11:00 am- 12:00 pm. Public viewing Sunday 2:00-6:00pm. at Rowan Funeral Service Chapel.