Wilbur 'Willie' Hitt dies at 86

DOWNEY -- Wilbur "Willie" Hitt, who called Downey home for many years, passed away Friday, April 20. He was 86. 

Willie was born and raised in Riverside where his family gained local notoriety for having the largest family in the area, a fact that was documented by the local newspaper. He had 12 siblings, including a twin brother who lives in Downey. Willie spent summers during his childhood selling newspapers at March Air Reserve Base, one of his most beloved memories. 

After a short stint in the Army, Willie primarily worked as a security guard in various Southeast Los Angeles neighborhoods, spending much of his time in Bell Gardens. 

Willie left behind two children, Gayle and Mark. He is survived by his friend and caretaker, Carlos Vasquez, his great niece Tina Vasquez, his twin brother Wayne Hitt, and his nephew, Wayne Eddie Hitt. 

His memorial service will be held in his old stomping grounds in Bell Gardens at Allen English and Estrada Funeral Home.