Summary of Offense: Willie was convicted of the rape and murder of Faith Hathaway south of Franklinton on May 28, 1980. Hathaway was raped by both Willie and his co-defendant Joseph J. Vaccaro and then stabbed to death; each man said the other did it. Willie was convicted of other violent crimes, including kidnaping and rape, and said that he had committed other murders as well. He was also featured in Sister Helen Prejean's Dead Man Walking. Willie's last words were addressed to the parents of the Faith Hathaway, Vernon and Elizabeth Harvey, who became known as Louisiana's most ardent supporters of the death penalty
Victim: Faith Hathaway
Time of Death: 12:15 a.m.
Manner of execution: Electric Chair
Last Meal: Fried fish, oysters and shrimp as well as some french fries and a salad
Final Statement: "I would just like to say, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey, that I hope you get some relief from my death. Killing people is wrong. That's why you've put me to death. It makes no difference whether it's citizens, countries, or governments, killing is wrong." When the hood was placed over his head, Willie asked that it be removed, and he winked at Sister Helen, who was present as his spiritual advisor. Then the hood was replaced.
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