PHILADELPHIA — Willie Maurice Kilpatrick, 85, of Vicksburg, formerly of Philadelphia, passed away Sept. 2, 2015, at Merit Health River Region Medical Center after a heroic battle with Alzheimer’s disease and complications from shingles.

He was born Jan. 29, 1930 to William and Fannie Kilpatrick, and was one of nine children.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Virginia Kilpatrick; his daughter, Pam Wilbanks (Rayford); his grandson, Jason Wilbanks (Melisa); his great-grandchildren, Tristan and Elaina Wilbanks; sister, Dorothy Harris; brothers, Aubrey Earl (Naomi), Billy (Nona) and Jimmy (Margaret); and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Fannie Kilpatrick; his sisters, Mary Frances Morris and Bobby Anne Dennis; his brothers, Laulen and A.J.; his niece, Lynn Womble; and nephews, Travis Morris, John Morris and James Kilpatrick.

Maurice was a graduate of Decatur High School. Before completing his education, he served his country in the Korean War in the U.S. Air Force. He received a B.S. in business administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. For 42 years, he served the public in hospital and nursing home administration, and he had a passion for making sure each patient had the care he/she needed.

He loved to play golf, and enjoyed watching his grandson, and then his great-grandson play baseball.

The family would like to express a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Lee Griffin and all the employees at Heritage House Nursing home. Their love and care helped us all through a difficult time.

Memorial services are 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, 2015, at McClain-Hayes Funeral Home in Philadelphia with Dr. Matt Buckles officiating. Burial will be at New Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Mark Kilpatrick, Chuck Kilpatrick, Michael Kilpatrick, Stanley Dowell, Hugh Thoms and Benjamin Wilbanks.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, 196 Charmant Drive, Suite 4, Ridgeland, MS 39157 (601-987-0020) or to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, 1607 Cherry St., Vicksburg, MS 39180.