A Celebration of Life for Willie Earl Pesnell of Choudrant, Louisiana will be 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Alabama Presbyterian Church in Choudrant. Officiating the service will be Dr. Allison Moody.  Interment will follow in the Sibley Cemetery in Choudrant under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Homes in Ruston, Louisiana.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. until service time at Alabama Presbyterian Church for any family and friends.

Willie Earl Pesnell was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a man of quiet strength. He passed away peacefully, Saturday, April 26, 2025, surrounded by his family.  He was the last surviving male member of the Choudrant High School Class of 1955.  Willie was a faithful member and Deacon of Alabama Presbyterian Church, where he served with humility and steadfastness.

Willie Earl worked for Ford Motor Company for 40 years, dedicating himself with loyalty and integrity until his retirement.  A man of few words, when Willie Earl spoke, people listened because what he said mattered.  His wit was dry, his humor quick, and his presence always steady.

He found joy in the simple things: early mornings at the pond with a fishing pole in hand, time spent in the woods hunting, and road trips to Branson, Missouri with the love of his life, Jeanette-his wife of 68 years.

Willie Earl “Papaw” is survived by his cherished wife, Jeanette Pesnell; his son Michael Pesnell (Kathi); his daughter, Stephanie Smith (Joey); his grandchildren; Amy Smith Edwards (Travis), Tammy Smith Touchstone (Scott), Jody Smith (Ashley), Kassi Pesnell, Kaleb Pesnell (Courtney), and Landry Smith (Kristyn).  He was a proud great-grandfather to Brianna Lewis (Justin), Ashton Taylor (Daniel), Cameron Thompson (Daisy), Maddy Boyd, Tucker Edwards, Evie and Slaton Smith, Briggs Killgore, Katherine Smith, Braxton and Liam Pesnell, Matthew, Alex, and William Edwards.  Willie was also proud of his 3 great-great- granddaughters, Kacelyn Lewis, Maizie Taylor, and Elizabeth Thompson – all of whom brought joy to his later years.  Willie is also survived by his special brother-in-law, Bobby Smith (Joyce Kay), numerous nieces, nephews, family members, and a host of friends.

Willie’s legacy is one of quiet faith, deep love, and a life well-lived.  He will be remembered for his wisdom, his humor, and the steadiness with which he loved his family.

Pallbearers will be Jody Smith, Landry Smith, Kaleb Pesnell, Cameron Thompson, David Smith, Travis Edwards, Justin Lewis, Daniel Taylor, Scott Touchstone, Bobby Smith, Briggs Killgore, and Tucker Edwards.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Alpine Nursing Home and the Rehabilitation Wing, Allegiance Hospice Care, and Kaleah’s Health Kare – Keshia.  A special thank you also to Erica Torbor, Jessie Bolton, and Vernon Daniels.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.

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