Willimer G. Herring

Mother Willimer G. Herring was born in Wetumpka, AL to the late Virginia Sims on March 3, 1941. She was raised and cared for by her grandmother, the late Rachel Sims.  Mother Willimer Herring accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Lord and Savior at a young age under the guidance of Reverend Leonard while attending Sweetwater Baptist Church in Wetumpka, Alabama. Following her relocation to Birmingham, she transitioned her membership to Trinity A.M.E. Zion Church. Subsequently, she became a member and First Lady of Mount Zion Baptist Church in Adamsville, Alabama, under the leadership of the late Reverend Oscar Herring. In 1995, Mother Herring joined West Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she remained an active member even after moving to Florida in 2018. Mother Herring's deep commitment to her faith and dedication to serving the Lord were evident through her numerous contributions to the church community. She was frequently invited to witness and share her insights and experiences as a keynote speaker at various church events, demonstrating her passion for uplifting God. She wasn’t one who sat idly in the pews of her own church either. Her active involvement included serving on the Trustee Board of West Tabernacle, participating in the Sanctuary Choir, and serving in the Christian Education Department as an Adult Sunday School Teacher and teacher for the Missions Department. Mother Herring was also a member of the Pastor’s Aid Committee and the Fine Arts (Drama) Department. Her role as a delegate to the National Baptist Convention, Inc. further illustrates her dedication to her faith.  Additionally, she played a significant role as one of five members on the building committee for the church's building expansion, reflecting her commitment to the growth and development of the church. Throughout her life, she exemplified the values of faith, service, and leadership. Mother Herring received her formal education within the Elmore County, Alabama school system. She shared inspiring narratives regarding her achievements and her reputation for being diligent and studious. During her high school years, she played the clarinet in the school band and was crowned Homecoming Queen in her senior year. Furthermore, she attained the distinction of Valedictorian of the graduating class at Elmore County Training School in 1959.  Following the completion of her high school education, Mother Herring pursued further studies to obtain an Administrative Certification from Western Olin Adult Night School in Birmingham, Alabama. Additionally, she enrolled in courses at the University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB). To deepen her biblical knowledge and fulfill her calling as a teacher, she earned a certification in Christian Education from the Birmingham Easonian Baptist Bible College.  Mother Herring began her remarkable journey in 1972 as a secretary at Baggett Transportation, later taking on the role of Unit Clerk at East End Memorial Hospital. Soon after, she received an opportunity from the City of Birmingham, embarking on a celebrated 33-year career with the Birmingham Police Department. Her dedication saw her serve as a secretary to multiple captains at the North Precinct Police Department. In 1993, she shattered barriers by becoming the first African American secretary to the Chief of Police, initially serving under Retired Chief Johnny Johnson, Retired Chief Mike Coppage, and Retired Chief Annetta Nunn. She graciously concluded this inspiring chapter of her life with her retirement in 2007.  Mother Herring exemplified wisdom and devotion as a mother. She imparted essential values to her children, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God, engaging in prayer, respecting others, and adhering to the principle of treating others as one wishes to be treated. Mother Herring was preceded in death by her daughter, Beverly (Willie) Byrd. She leaves behind cherished memories among her family and friends, which include her son, Ralph Floyd, Jr. of LaVerne, California; her daughter, Benita Hayes of Dade City, Florida; two goddaughters, Barbara Jackson of Birmingham, Alabama, and Barbara Jean Dixon of Plant City, Florida; two sisters, Barbara Hendricks of Bedford, Texas, and Polly Sims of Colony, New York; six grandchildren—Marquisha Floyd of Indianapolis, Indiana; Stephanie Byrd of Birmingham, Alabama; Marlon Floyd of Victorville, California; Cameron Byrd of Birmingham, Alabama; Terrence Floyd of Birmingham, Alabama; and Kaleel Hayes of Dade City, Florida; as well as seven great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends.Mother Herring peacefully departed this life in the tender loving care of her daughter on October 9, 2024, at 3:37 p.m.

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