Willie Edward Latham was born February 20, 1955, to Fannie Mae Latham. He accepted Christ at an early age at Northside Missionary Baptist Church. Willie later joined Divine Healing Temple where he was ordained as a deacon. Later on in life, he moved his membership to Southside M. B. Church where he remained. He attended the Columbus schools and was a graduate of Lee High School, Class of 1974. After high school, he began his employment with United Technologies where he remained for 27 years. During this time, he met the love of his life, Lue Council. Their union was blessed with four children. They exchanged vows on February 25, 1984, and shared 39 wonderful years together. He was later employed with Weavexx for 11 years.

Willie, known as "C-Bird," enjoyed farming with his tractor. He had a great love for animals, including German shepherd dogs, horses, and goats. His greatest love was spoiling his "grands." He was the proud owner and operator of W. L. Groceries which was located on 10th Avenue and 14th Avenue in Columbus, MS.

Willie departed this life on June 22, 2023, in Jackson, MS. He was preceded in death by his mother, Fannie Mae Latham,  and brother, Joe Riley Latham.

His memories will forever be cherished by his wife, Lue Latham; children, Sheref (Tura) Edwards, Jeremy (Latoya) Latham, Cedrick Latham, and Keshia (Lamarcus) Bush; grandchildren, Nina, Laila, Aubree, Jaila, Kaila, Ava, Austin, Amaiyah, and Amari; siblings, Jean (Nathan) Armistead, Delores Latham, Johnny (Casandra) Latham, and Helen Latham; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.