Bishop Philip Williford, 77, of 521 Osborne Road, Winston-Salem, N.C., passed peacefully Oct.15, 2009, at his home.

He was born December 24, 1931, in Lexington, N.C., to his parents, Bishop J. W. Williford and Annie Overby.

He was a minister who preached and worked faithfully in the Righteous Church of God in Shelby. Williford served as Bishop of the Disciples of Christ in Danville, Va. Bishop Philip’s ministry of ‘keep the joy’ spanned over 40 years.

He was also owner of a hosiery business and was involved in local and national efforts to keep young people in school and away from drugs. He served in the Air Force during the Korean conflict.

He leaves to cherish his memories his loving children: daughter, Dana Williford; three sons, Stephen Williford and Marvin Williford, both of Winston-Salem, Aaron Williford of Cleveland, Ohio; one sister, Mary McDonald of Cleveland, Ohio; one brother Bishop A. E. Williford; four grandchildren; a host of nieces and nephews, inlaws and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Elaine Williford.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. today at Sweet Holy Spirit Church with Bishop A. E. Williford serving as the eulogist. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Arrangements entrusted to Gilmore Funeral Home,1609 N Liberty St, Winston- Salem, NC.

Courtesy of Foster Funeral Home.