Willie Chance has been putting smiles on kids’ faces for 19 years as a Hillsborough County crossing guard.
RIVERVIEW, Fla. — Mr. Willie is 95 years old and still shows up to his job every day to keep students safe. Now, he’s being honored by the Hillsborough County community he’s served for so long.
Willie Chance has been working as a crossing guard for 19 years. And this past week, Summerfield Crossing Elementary School surprised him by naming the school crosswalk in his honor.
“Thank you, Mr. Willie, for nearly two decades of service, smiles, and commitment to protecting our children every single day,” the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office wrote in a Facebook post.
The sheriff’s office shared a photo of the beloved crossing guard standing next to his new “Mr. Willie’s Crosswalk” sign.
Families flooded the comments on the post to share their appreciation for Mr. Willie’s years of service.
“That man is so sweet. He waves at everyone that drives by,” one person wrote.
“Mr. Willie is absolutely the best!! He was my boys crossing guard at Seffner Elementary many years ago. He also a made our day,” another person shared.
Mr. Willie celebrated his 95th birthday in October and continues to take his job seriously for the students who look up to him. He’s known for his dedication, arriving before sunset and staying until the last student crosses the street.
“I love it because it gives me more energy,” Mr. Willie said in a video back in 2020. “When I come in the morning time and see the kids coming down, they speak, ‘Good morning,’ you know? Having a little conversation with the kids — that makes me feel good.”