Efrem Winters Obituary (1963 - 2025)

Efrem Zimbalist Winters, known affectionately to many as "Big E," "Big Win," or "Easy E," passed away peacefully at the age of 61 on January 27th, 2025. Born to Beulah and Henry Winters on December 19, 1963, in Lyon, Mississippi, Efrem lived a life defined by his quiet strength, love for family, loyalty to friends, and a passion for basketball. Efrem was a man of few words but had an immense heart. His humility, wit, and dedication to the people around him left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. Known as a gentle giant with a pure spirit, Efrem had an unforgettable presence that will live on in the hearts of many. On the basketball court, Efrem shined as a true leader. His journey began at King High School in Chicago, where he led the Jaguars to a city championship in 1982. His talent and determination continued at the University of Illinois, where he helped restore the Fighting Illini to national prominence. His towering presence and electrifying dunks made him a key player on and off the court. In 2017, he was inducted into the Illinois High School Hall of Fame, forever enshrining him as one of the greatest high school basketball players in Illinois history. His legacy as an inspiration and a beacon of hope in the community during the 70s and 80s will endure long after his passing. Off the court, Efrem found fulfillment in his work as a Project Manager at Pepper Construction, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 2022. Despite his many accomplishments, Efrem was first and foremost a family man. He cherished his role as a loving husband to his wife Amanda, a devoted father to his children Jamal (Daisy), Elliot (Monique), and Diane (Nehemiah), and a proud grandfather to Julius, Alyvia, Emiyah, Emani, Nehemiah, and Egypt. Efrem was also the beloved brother of Roxy, Brenda, Patricia (Patrick), Leonard (Lisa), Bernice, Josephine, Mary, Lee, Charles, Shirley, and Melvin, as well as a cherished uncle to a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Beulah Winters, (Willie Johnson), his bonus daughter Segie Nicole Jones and his siblings Henry, Delores, Evelyn, Charles, Milton, Diane, Jay, Eddie, Ruth, Ethel, Annie, Beatrice, Willie Jr, John, Alberta, and Andrew. A celebration of Efrem’s life and legacy will be held at King High School, 4445 S Drexel Blvd, Chicago, IL 60653, on February 7th at 6:00 pm CST. As we gather to remember him, we take comfort in the words of Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Efrem made us all feel loved, valued, and inspired, and his memory will remain in our hearts forever. We invite all who knew Efrem to share their memories and upload photos on his memorial page, celebrating the life of a remarkable man whose impact stretched far beyond his achievements on the basketball court. Tributes: Elliot Winters: "There are so many things I wish I could say, but there's not enough time or words that would suffice. I just wish I had more time with you, I wish your grandchildren had more time with you. But, I will cherish the times we shared. Until we meet again...Love you Pops!" Jamal Winters: "Dear Dad, The time the lord gave me with you was something special. The lessons you taught me, the love you showed me, I will always cherish...and I'll make sure your grandchildren get the same love and affection you showed others. Watch over us and guide us as best as you can from above Old Man. I'll be missing you... Jamal." Amanda Winters: "To my Dear husband Efrem, When I first saw you I knew you were the one. I prayed and asked God to send me a good man and he sent you. I am going to miss the quality time we had together. I thank God for allowing us both to have good jobs allowing us to see some of the world.That was truly amazing! He blessed us with wonderful children and beautiful grandkids and he blessed us to be together for over 35 years. The love I have for you will always be. I love you always until we reunite...RIP my love. Your loving wife, Amanda."