Willie F. Laird was born to Rev. John and Perlena Laird on July 27, 1949, in Memphis, Tennessee. Willie was the youngest of eight children, growing up alongside his five sisters—Betty Jean, Mose Ella, Mattie, Ann, and Loretta—and two brothers, John and James. In 1955, his family relocated to Chicago, where Willie completed his education at John Marshall High School.

In August of 1968, Willie married Kathryn Coleman, his soulmate and love of his life. Their bond began many years before their marriage when Kathryn was 15 and he was 17; childhood sweethearts.Together they created a life filled with shared adventures, laughter, and countless cherished memories traveling to places like Las Vegas, Mexico, England, New York, and California etc.—He has now reached his final destination, arriving in the presence of God.

Willie was a devoted believer in Christ. He was a loving husband, brother, uncle, grandpa, and papa. Throughout his life, he was committed to his family and work, always striving to provide for those he loved. He was known for his sharp business acumen, unwavering integrity, and work ethic—never missing a day of work in his career. Willie wore many hats in his work history. For 44 years, Willie was a dedicated employee at American Airlines, where he earned respect for his reliability and excellence. Beyond his work with the airline, Willie was a natural entrepreneur, obtaining his real estate license and purchasing properties in Indiana, where he worked as a landlord. He owned and operated Laird’s Shoes. Additionally, he owned a barbershop, showcasing his diverse talents and business expertise.

He had a natural sense for business and always approached challenges with intelligence and insight. A sharp mind. If you could sit long enough through his lectures, you were blessed to be able to soak up that wisdom.

He looked forward to seeing his grandchildren every Sunday where they looked forward to getting $1 and snacks from grandpa. He cherished spending time with his great-grandchildren, eagerly looking forward to playing with them and attending graduations, birthday parties, and other special events. He especially loved the surprise birthday parties they organized for him, always smiling brightly as he opened the thoughtful gifts they made and bought for him. They affectionately called him "Papa."

He took great pride in sharing stories with his grandchildren, including his personal experience of flying to Washington, D.C., to be a part of such a historic event as the Million Man March.

Willie’s sense of humor and quick wit were among his many endearing qualities. He could always be counted on for a good laugh and to make others feel at ease with his infectious personality.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kathryn Laird; his two sons, Willie F. Laird Jr. and Byron Laird; his seven cherished grandchildren, Michelle, Willie, Tenae, Devante, Tiara (Terell), and Tytiana; and his six great-grandchildren, Laila, Brandon, Lela, Zae Ellias, Theodore, and Tesley. He is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whose lives he touched deeply. He had a special place in his heart for his niece Joyce.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. John and Perlena Laird; his siblings, Betty Jean, Mose Ella, Mattie, Ann, Loretta, and John; his daughter Michelle Laird; and his granddaughter Nimeoka Laird.