WILMINGTON — Willie Lou Oden Rouse, 90, passed away Sunday, June 16, 2019, at Trinity Grove with her family at her side. She was born Aug. 8, 1928, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to Roberta Talley Oden and James Herman Oden.
Preceding her in death were her parents; sister, Veneeda Irby; and husband of 65 years, Judson R. Rouse Sr.
She is survived by daughter, Sandra Rouse Pratt (Alan); sons, Judson Rouse Jr. (Susan) and James Rouse (Jan); grandchildren, Talley Evans (Brian), Jordan Rouse (Sarah), Shannon Durham (Charlie), Jake Rouse (Andrew) and Josh Rouse (Claire); great-grandchildren, Charlie, Thomas, and Ellis Evans, Helen Dean and Jackson Rouse, Devan and Reid Durham and Ryan Rouse.
Willie Lou and Judson, along with their children, moved to Wilmington in 1967. They joined Trinity United Methodist Church at that time and became actively involved in the church. Willie Lou volunteered in her children’s schools and activities and was an ardent supporter of their participation in athletics. She attended countless sporting events for all of her children and grandchildren and cheered loudly. She also enjoyed watching UNC-Chapel Hill, Michigan State and Atlanta Braves teams.
Most of all Willie Lou enjoyed time with her family. She loved cooking for them, hosting family dinners and tailgating for ballgames. She so much enjoyed seeing her extended family grow. Diagnosed 16 years ago with pulmonary fibrosis, she surprised her physicians with her longevity post diagnosis. She lived those years fully and without complaints. She taught her children much about love, faith, grace and perseverance.
Her children wish to thank her faithful friends and church for their love, support and prayers. They also wish to thank Trinity Grove for the love and care provided their mom. They also thank their parents for the love, lessons learned and home they provided them.
The family will receive friends at 10 a.m., Friday, June 21, at the fellowship hall of Trinity United Methodist Church. A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. in the church sanctuary. Burial next to her husband will then follow in Oleander Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, Willie Lou asked that those wishing to make a memorial gift consider Trinity United Methodist Church, 1403 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28401.
Share online condolences with the family at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory.
