Louis Wexler King

Louis Wexler King, affectionately known as “Papa Willie” and “Grandfather Willie”, was born to Albertina and Samuel King on August 9, 1910 in St. Andrew’s Parish on the Island of Barbados.  On October 11, 1917, Papa Willie along with his mother and four brothers arrived in the Republic of Panama to begin a new life. 

In 1931, he was employed as a laborer on the Panama Canal.  He worked to maintain and repair locks on the canal at a time when it was undergoing major repairs.  Later, in 1941 Louis secured a permanent position with the Motor Transportation Division (MTD) of the Panama Canal Zone as a Dump Truck Driver.  His supervisors were so impressed with the pride he took in his work, and his exemplary work effort that he was quickly promoted to Dispatcher, and then to Supervisory Dispatcher at the Atlantic Side Motor Transportation Division.  He continued to serve the MTD during World War II.  He shared many stories about working closely with U.S. Armed Forces driving VIPs to undisclosed locations across the Isthmus of Panama.  In 1978 Louis retired after 47 years of service.  In that same year he immigrated to the United States and in 1985 he became a proud United States citizen.                                                             

Louis had a mantra that he learned early in life, and he recited to his children, which goes; “If a job is once begun never leave it ‘til it’s done.  Be the job great or small do it well or not at all.”  Although he began his career as a humble laborer, his work ethic enabled him to stand out and to excel in all endeavors.  Louis loved God and his family.  He was a man of great faith and prayed for the intentions of his family every morning and each night.  Louis loved listening to classical music, singing, discussing politics and sports, especially golf and boxing.  He was a wonderful cook; he still enjoyed cooking well into his 90s.

 A few years ago, he was able to travel back to Barbados with his eldest daughter June fulfilling a life-long wish to see his ancestral home.  In 2014, Papa Willie visited Panama and was honored by the Rainbow City High School Class of 1969, as part of their recognition of Panamanian community patriarchs.  In 2016, Louis traveled to Norfolk, Virginia where he was again honored by another Rainbow City High School Senior class. 

At 108, Papa Willie’s mind was still sharp, and he remembered so many details about past events and could discuss and debate current events.  He could even recall events about his children and grandchildren as they were growing up and always had a good story to share.  Papa Willie was a true historian, and the loving patriarch of his family.  Most importantly, he always demonstrated a genuine love for his family and family friends; he never forgot to say, “I love you”.

Louis King was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Isabelle Geraldine King, two daughters Gwendolyn King and Veronica Albertina King, and one son Raymond King. 

He leaves to cherish his memories two daughters: June King-Dumas, Antonia King-Stephens; five sons: Lionel King, Ignatius King, Augusto King, Dr. Francisco King, and Rafael King; sons in law: Calvin Dumas and José Stephens; daughters in law: Gwendolyn M. King, Betty King and Yasmin King; 22 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren.