Willie Lander Avant, a resident of Dothan, died Thursday, September 5, 2013. He was 87.
Graveside services will be held 10:00 a.m. Saturday, September 7, 2013 at Memory Hill Cemetery with Rev. Clint McBroom officiating and Byrd Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends following the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a favorite charity.
Mr. Avant was born December 23, 1925 in Midland City. He entered the U.S. Navy at age 17 and served in the South Pacific in WWII on board a minesweeper. Following his military service, he came back and finished high school at Dothan High. Mr. Avant then enrolled at Auburn University and graduated with a BS in Dairy Science in 1955 after which he went to work with Borden Ice Cream. He opened his own delivery business later evolving into Avant Air Freight and Delivery which he operated for 40 years. He was a devoted father, grandfather, and loving husband of 58 years. He was an avid Auburn football fan and a member of Highland Park United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Sally Avant; two daughters and a son-in-law, Sandy Avant Anderson and Judge Larry Anderson of Dothan and Dr. Lou Avant of Atlanta; and one grandson, Patrick Hunter Anderson, Auburn University.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to all Extendicare staff and especially to Genese Reeves.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
September 12, 2013
Gary Smothers
To Mrs. Sally and Sandy,I am sad to hear of Mr.Willie passing away,like so many others I enjoyed working for him and both of you,it was a great time and I learned a great deal from you all,My wife Nancy and I send our condolences and may God bless your whole family.
September 11, 2013
Chris Givens
I will always remember working for Willie and Sally Avant at their air freight service(Airborne Express) from 1996-1998. Both of them are first class people and I appreciated their leadership and advice. I want to send my condolences and prayers to the Avant family upon Willie's loss and when he gets to heaven I wish him a happy reunion with all those family members and Auburn fans that predeceased him.
September 9, 2013
Kathy Perkins Williams
Sending love and hugs to all of you as you mourn the loss of Mr. Willie. I know how much you all will miss him.
Kathy Perkins Williams
Chandler, AZ
September 8, 2013
Teresa
"Miss Sally",
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Willie. The boys and I so enjoyed sitting with you all at the Auburn games. I have missed that terribly. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
September 6, 2013
Kim Hawkins Crews
My thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. Sally, Sandy, Juanita, Patrick and Larry. May God be with each of you during your time of sadness.
September 6, 2013
Charles Pferrman
Mrs. Sally and Mrs. Sandy, just wanted to send my heartfelt condolences as well as prayers for your loss. I fondly remember deep conversations with Mr. Willie. He has always been very engaging and willing to share some much needed advice. I remember my Airborne Express years fondly because of The Boss. He made working there fun. Again, my family will keep yours in our prayers.
September 6, 2013
Suzy Adams
Mrs. Sally & family, I am so sorry for your loss. He was a sweetheart of a man, and the love shared between you two was so special, an inspiration to many. He brought me many smiles, loved to pick at him about his Auburn! The compassion you two showed to others is a tremendous testimony. Please know you are in my prayers and God gives Perfect Peace. As much as he will be missed, he is with Jesus and knows happiness as we have yet to only imagine! My Nana sends you her love and condolences also Mrs Sally.
Love in Christ,
Suzy Adams & Margaret Ward
John 16:16
September 6, 2013
My condolences are extended to the family. Willie was a good Christian man and the world is a better place for him having past through it. I appreciate the kindness and friendship of Sally and Willie.
September 5, 2013
Miss Sally, I am so sorry on your loss of Mr. Avant. He was a special man. I so enjoyed my time as his nurse many years ago and getting to know both of you. My sympathy and prayers are with you.
In Love of Christ,
Pam Childers Silavent
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