LEILANI MICHELLE WILLINGHAM

Leilani Michelle Willingham, 67, was peacefully accepted into Heaven on September 29th, 2023 at the Navy Medical Center, San Diego, with all her family surrounding her.
Leilani was born on September 21, 1956, at Navy Hospital, Camp Pendleton, California. She
confessed her faith in Christ at an early age and was baptized at Walker Chappel AME in
Oceanside, California where she was an active member and sang in the choir. She was also a
member, choir member, and former secretary at the Friendly Church of God in Christ. She
graduated from Oceanside High School Class of 1975. She retired from Stater Bros Market,
where she worked for over 20 years. Leilani was married to Elder Dr. Arrell Willingham, her partner in
Christ for 48 years. From that union, 3 children were born.
Leilani was preceded in passing by her parents John A. Edwards, Jr and Diane Edwards. Leilani
is survived by her husband Elder Dr. Arrell Willingham, and her three children -
Marquis Willingham (Fantaya), Andre Willingham (Diana), Ariel Nwokafor (Anthony, Jr.), and
her six grandchildren - Iman, Mael, Ryder, Aaron, Amarachi, and Royce. She is also survived by her
siblings - Michael Edwards, Eve Edwards, and Kelly Sanders and a host of relatives and friends. 
Leilani loved studying the Word of God. She had many hobbies which included gardening,
watching old black-and-white films, and learning/retelling her family’s history dating back
several generations. She loved spending time with her family and preparing large meals for
gatherings. Leilani had what she called “adventures”. She would ride the train with her
grandkids to San Diego and wherever they got off they would find something to do. She took
the grandkids on several adventures to the zoo, beach, parks and anywhere else they wanted to
go. She touched many lives with her generosity and passion for life. She had three children, but
many called her “Mom"

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven....."

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