On February 7, 1939, the Lord blessed Walter Lane and Alberta Horn Lane with a son they named Willie Joe Lane. He was the first of five children raised in the Town Bluff Community and later moved to Jasper. At an early age, Willie Joe accepted Christ as his personal Savior and attended New Zion Baptist Church in Spurger, Texas. Later in life he attended Jesus Christ Holy Tabernacle Church and then Christ Brighter Day Ministries.

Willie Joe graduated from J.H. Rowe High School-Class of 1958. He was a dedicated member of the Trombone section of the J.H. Rowe Tigers Marching Band. Willie Joe lived a life defined by service, hard work, and quiet dedication to his family. He began working at a young age and was a firm believer in a great work ethic.

After graduating high school, Willie served his country in the United States Army, completing his service with an honorable discharge. His commitment to duty and integrity remained evident throughout his life.

Willie Joe devoted many years to working at Visador, where his dedication and reliability carried him all the way through to retirement. Never one to shy away from a full day’s work, he also ran a lawn‑care business on the side—bringing care, pride to every yard he touched. During 2003 he transitioned into retirement life. Willie Joe had a true love for music, cars, traveling and found happiness in watching all kinds of sports, never missing a chance to enjoy a good game.

Willie Joe was united in marriage to Rosa Levette Lane on December 30, 1961, whereas he remained her faithful partner and caregiver until her passing during 2015. To this union three children were born, Willie J. Lane, Jr. (Belinda) of Jasper, TX, Rosa Smith (Anthony) of Houston, TX and LaGreta Arrington (Kerrick) of La Porte, TX. He leaves them to mourn his loss and carry forward his legacy of kindness and perservance. He is proceeded in death by his parents, loving wife and one sister, Sara Sylvester. Willie Joe also leaves behind one brother, Jack Lane (Betty) and one sister, Shirley Payne, both Jasper, TX ; bonus sister, Danny Jean Davis and two Godchildren, Jackie Brooks Teal and Charles Brooks. Additionally, Willie Joe leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and grandchildren including Cassandra, Aaron, Jessica, Terrance, DeAnthony, Avery, LaNaisha, Kera and 11 great grandchildren-all of whom carry cherished memories of the love shared by Willie Joe affectionally known as “Papa”.

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1 (KJV)