Mae Sallee Willhoit Duckworth, age 92, passed away Friday, March 18, 2011 in St. Johns Mercy Villa. A long time resident of Springfield, she was born Sept. 10, 1918, in Pondfork, Mo., the youngest daughter of James Barton and Mary Ellen “Molly” (Hobbs) Sallee. She graduated from Thornfield High School, then attended MO State Teacher’s College (SMS).
On Dec. 23, 1943, she was united in marriage to Rev. Howard Willhoit. To this union, two children were born: George Lyndall and Ellen Lucille. Howard and Mae founded the First General Baptist Church in Springfield, and he served as the first pastor (1947-1950). Howard passed away April 12, 1950. Mae was a teacher for a few years, then bookkeeper for the Heur Williams Company. In 1965, she moved to Seal Beach, Calif., and married Lerman Duckworth. After retirement, Lerman and Mae returned to Springfield. They enjoyed fishing, traveling in their RV, and gardening. Mae enjoyed crocheting afghans for her family. Lerman passed away Feb. 25, 2008.
Mae was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers; three sisters; and her baby daughter. Survivors are her brother, Jim Sallee, Mt. Vernon, Mo.; her son, George Willhoit and wife Joyce; five grandsons, Travis (Tabetha), Michael (Tammy), Aaron (Sarah), Shaun (Joyce), and Brian (Stephanie); seven great-grandchildren, Lincoln and Reagan, Marley and Howie, Tyler, Emalie and Zachary; a special niece, Jan (Tom) Weaver; one step-daughter, Wanda (Bill) Huffman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 23, at 11 a.m., in Greenlawn Funeral Home East with visitation one hour prior to service. Interment will follow in Lutie Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lutie Cemetery, Theodosia, Mo.