Mandy Lee (Willhite) Timberlake

Mandy Lee Timberlake, affectionately known to her family, neighbors and dear friends as “Granny,” transitioned peacefully on May 9, 2026, in Bellwood, Illinois, at the age of 89.

Mandy was born on April 24,1937 in Osceola Arkansas to  Arthur and Rose Lee Willhite, who both preceded her in death. 

Mandy and her former spouse Maxie D Timberlake, remained lifelong friends and co-parents to their remarkable children.

Mandy was the devoted mother of Diane (Charlie), Mark(Jill), Fernando, Sharon, Valerie(Kenneth), Maxine, Steve, Margo (Hector), Angel (Felicita), Brian who preceded her in death, and Wesley who was born in the arms of Jesus Christ. 

Mandy is also survived by her loving siblings Pearline, Jimmy, Mary, Maxine (James), and Cathy. Siblings Johnny B, Louise, Barbara, Joe, and Dorothy preceded her in death.  

Mandy was known for her unwavering love of God, her faith, strength, courage, perseverance, generosity, humor, love, deep devotion to family and all of whom she encountered. She was the heart of her family and community, a strong woman who raised strong women and men. 

Mandy was deeply devoted to God, she prayed faithfully every morning and night for her children, family, and others. Her life reflected the belief she held close to her heart: “Jesus is Love.” Through her words and actions, she shared that love freely with everyone.

Mandy sacrificed and often put others before herself. She literally brought the homeless into her home. She made sure they had a place to bathe, eat, and sleep. She didn't broadcast it. One only knew if they lensed a helping hand. She treated everyone with love, dignity, empathy, and patience. Her life reflected her love for Jesus.

Mandy served as a community ambassador by marching and advocating for affordable housing in the Wicker Park and Humboldt Park communities. 

Mandy's cooking skills were a true remarkable gift from God. Every meal was prepared in love. She turned simple dishes into masterpieces. There were no measuring cups and measuring spoons in her kitchen. She didn't keep her gift to herself. She had a passion for sharing and showing others what to do and how to do it.  Her cooking had a way of bringing family and friends together. 

Mandy was the neighborhood stylist. Even her hands were blessed.  From a straightening comb to a Care Free Curl, she did it all. 

Mandy was diagnosed with Dementia.... but Dementia Didn't win!!! Through Christ she was healed. She never suffered. She still had a sense of humor. She still showed affection. She still had an infectious laugh and smile. She still responded to the hearts of others. Through it all, her love for God never wavered. 

Her family finds comfort in the promise of Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

John 14:1-3 KJV

"My dear family,
Although dementia slowly took pieces of my memory, it could never take the love I carried for each of you.
Even on the days when my mind grew tired and my words became hard to find, my heart still knew you.
I knew your voices, your touch, your presence, and the love surrounding me.
Please remember me not for the illness, but for the life we shared together — the meals around my table, the grandchildren filling my home with laughter, the late nights, the holidays, the hugs, and all the little moments that became a beautiful life.
Being a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister was my greatest purpose and deepest joy.
To the grandchildren I helped raise, thank you for filling my days with meaning. My home was full because of you, and so was my heart.
Do not let your hearts stay heavy for too long. I am at peace now.
Hold onto one another, keep gathering together, keep cooking and sharing stories, and keep my love alive in your family traditions.
And whenever you hear laughter in a crowded home or smell food cooking with love, I hope you will feel me near.
Though dementia changed many things, it never changed how deeply I loved all of you.”

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