Willa Dean Condrey

Willa Dean Condrey, affectionately known as Dean, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, in Birmingham, Alabama, surrounded by her children. Born on November 16, 1939, in Webb, Alabama, she was the cherished daughter of the late Allie and Terry Strickland. Her life was a testament to the love and devotion she held for her family and her unwavering faith in God.

Dean attended Cottonwood High School, where she laid the foundations for a life filled with love, hard work, and service. She was the matriarch of her family, a role she embraced with every fiber of her being. As a tireless servant of God, Dean’s love knew no bounds as she nurtured and cared for her family and friends. Her dedication to her children was evident in her loving survivors: Angeline (Richard) Gibson, Margie (Jimmie) Miller, Wanda Chesnut, and Tony Johnson. She was predeceased by her husband, Rev. Cecil Laverne Condrey and her son, George "Carey" Hall.

Dean's siblings were a significant part of her life, and she is fondly remembered by Nina Sue Campbell, Linda B. Shepard, Brenda Joyce Jewel, Margaret Ann, Elisa Grier, Shelby Strickland, Robert Strickland, Larry Strickland, and John Allen Strickland. She was preceded in death by her sisters Shirley Hall, Sarah H. Raye, and her brothers Shelton and Clarence Strickland.

Her legacy continues through her adoring grandchildren Jacey Chesnut Murray, Victoria Hall, Trista Brophy Cerquera, Danielle MacPherson, Christopher (Mae-Gan) Mavromihalis, Jessie (Timothy) Martin, Zoe Nelson, and Jessica Gibson-Ware. She is also survived by many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Dean was preceded in death by her grandchildren Jacob Gibson and Jamie Fenn.

Dean's life was one of service and joy. She loved to socialize and her presence in any room was comforting and uplifting. Her culinary talents were legendary, especially her famous cakes, and she relished in cooking huge meals, canning vegetables, and ensuring no one left her home hungry. Her voice was a staple in the church choir, where she found joy in singing and listening to gospel music.

A woman of many talents, Dean was an avid sewer and gardener, taking pride in her flower beds. Any visitor was likely to leave with a cutting or two. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, such as fishing, camping, interior design, and caring for her pets. Her devotion and faith to God and her family were the center of her unwavering strength, courage, and endurance.

Faith-filled, loving, and selfless—these words best describe Dean. She had an unwavering work ethic, and slowing down was never an option for her. Dean believed in the power of love, and she lived by the principle that we should all love one another. Her ability to "steal your heart" was unparalleled, and she left an indelible imprint on the hearts of all who knew her.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Southeast Health ICU Nurses, The Cardiologist Team, and Dr. Nelson Gwinn for their compassionate care during her final days. Her life was a beautiful example of service and love, and her memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Willa Dean Condrey's life was a journey of faith, love, and selfless devotion. As we bid her farewell, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on through the many lives she touched. Her unwavering commitment to her family and God will never be forgotten, and her legacy will continue to shine as a beacon of hope and love for generations to come.

A celebration of Dean’s life will be held at 3pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in the Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ed French officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home from 2-3pm prior to the service. Dean will be laid to rest in Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.

Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com