Willie Carraway
Willie Carraway was a 45 year old man whose presence filled every space he stepped into. His smile, his laugh, and the way he carried himself made people feel lighter just by being near him.
He grew up in Cross City, Florida, the youngest child in a hardworking family. From the time he was five, he was helping on the farm, learning discipline and responsibility from his older siblings.
Those early lessons shaped his entire life. Willie believed in effort, faith, and the idea that with God’s grace, anything could be overcome.
Friends called him “Big Kuntry,” a nickname that captured his warmth, humor, and the way he embraced life. It stuck because it fit him perfectly.
One of the greatest chapters of Willie’s life began when he met Niki. They connected instantly on a Tuesday night at a nightclub, and by their first date two days later, she already saw the sincerity in him.
When she told him to call at a specific time, he did — exactly on the dot. That small moment told her everything she needed to know about the kind of man he was.
Their marriage of 22 years was built on laughter, adventure, and a deep, steady love. They bowled together, spent days at the beach, watched action movies, and enjoyed church outings and amusement parks.
Willie loved roller coasters and anything that brought a rush of excitement. Niki misses his playful teasing and the way he could make her laugh without even trying.
He was a dedicated worker, respected by everyone around him. A true blue‑collar man, he took pride in his craft and earned the “Best Crew” award for his leadership and commitment.
Outside of work, Willie lived boldly. He rode ATVs, raced jet skis, and never turned down a trip to Busch Gardens. He and Niki loved cruising with Carnival, making memories on the water.
Football was another passion. He played when he was young and later celebrated the game by attending the Florida Classic each year with friends. He also loved cars, especially classic Dodge Rams, and enjoyed going to car shows.
Niki holds countless memories close, but one stands out. During a visit to his hometown, she ran down a country road while Willie chased her, laughing, with a huge turtle in his hands. It was silly, joyful, and completely him.
She describes him as a gentle soul with a heart of gold. Their relationship was full of humor, affection, and a bond that never wavered. She says she will love him until the end of time and will always fight for justice in his name.
On August 27, 2022, Willie Carraway was tragically shot and killed on the 1500 block of N. Nebraska Avenue in Tampa, Florida. He had been spending time with friends near the Robert W. Saunders Public Library when gunfire erupted around 1:20 a.m.
Two other men were injured but survived. Willie did not.
In his honor, Niki created Kuntry’s Konnections, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth. Each year, she hosts a back‑to‑school giveaway in Willie’s hometown, keeping his spirit alive through service.
Her long‑term dream is to open a community center focused on emotional awareness and healthy communication. She teaches children the difference between “mouse problems” they can handle and “elephant problems” that need an adult’s help.
She also works with organizations in Hillsborough County to raise awareness about gun violence. She knows Willie would be proud of the work being done in his name.
Willie “Big Kuntry” Carraway is remembered as a man with a huge heart, a kind spirit, and a love that reached everyone around him. His legacy lives on through his family, his community, and the countless lives he touched.
Anyone with information about the unsolved homicide of Willie Carraway is asked to contact the Tampa Police Department at (813) 231‑6130. To remain anonymous and possibly receive a reward, call Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay at (800) 873‑8477.
