Willmetta Ruth Fairbanks (nee Goheen), age 85, of East Tawas died peacefully on Sat, Apr 21, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family.
Wilmetta was born on October 23, 1932 in Clio. She graduated from Clio High School in 1951. Willmetta then married Edward J Fairbanks on October 1, 1951 at Faith Tabernacle Church in Clio. Together they began a 50 year legacy of ministry, serving as pastors in the Assemblies of God at various churches throughout the state. Willmetta served alongside her husband Edward Fairbanks as the pastors of East Tawas Assembly of God Church for 23 years retiring in 1994.
Willmetta will be remembered by the community as a mentor and inspiration of faith. Willmetta had a servant’s heart. She was always thinking of others and making many feel special and loved by her kind words and nots of encouragement.
Willmetta enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She was an avid reader and loved to travel. She especially enjoyed spending summer days at Lost Valley Bible Camp in northern MI.
Wilmetta is survived by four sons, Jonathan (Karen) of East Tawas, Paul (Marianne) of Tawas City, Dennis (Karen) of Harrison, and James (Nipa) of National City; eight grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. Willmetta was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Edward Fairbanks; and her son Phillip Fairbanks.
Funeral services will be held on Fri, Apr 27 at 11am at East Tawas Assembly of God Church. Interment will follow in Flint Memorial in Mt. Morris. Visitation will be held on Thu, Apr 26 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Buresh Funeral Home in Tawas City.