Willie Williams, III, was a devoted husband, loving father, mentor, businessman, and political activist. He was an encourager and the one who had a love for the masses. He was always willing to help lift others up and to share his blessings with others.
Born in Richmond, Virginia, on July 31, 1930, Willie Williams, III, was the son of Irene Pleasants Chambers and Willie Williams, Jr. Willie Williams III, affectionally known as “Bill” was brought to Sharon Baptist Church at the age of two by his grandmother, Mrs. Eliza Jasper Williams. Willie made a decision in his teens to be baptized at Sharon Baptist Church and remained there the remainder of his life. He served his beloved church in the following capacities: ordained as a Deacon on October 27, 1966, member of the Men’s Sunday School Bible Class, Budget Director, Senior Citizens Group, and participated in church activities until his health declined.
Willie was a proud 1947 graduate of Armstrong High School. One of his joyous and committed experiences was serving as chairman of the class reunions for many years. Upon graduation from high school, he enlisted into the U.S. Navy, Great Lakes, Illinois, on February 4, 1948. He served for 20 years and achieved the rank of Petty Officer, First Class. Upon retiring from the Navy, Willie continued his educational training at the former Richmond Business College, which gave inspiration to his entrepreneurial pursuits.
Willie was a skilled and caring entrepreneur who was always willing to share his knowledge and know-how with others. He was the founder and chairman of Flamingo, Inc. and co-owner of American World Tours, Inc. He also served on many civic associations in various capacities. Among the associations are Hobson Lodge #23, Astoria Beneficial Club, Crusade for Voters, Military Retirees Club, Inc., Living the Dream, Inc., Richmond Continentals Society, Inc. Board, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and the WTVR-Advisory Council.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Madalyn W. Winn, one brother, Allen Williams, one grandson, Leonidas Brown, Jr. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 42 years, Jean Thompson Williams; three daughters, Katrina W. Flannigan, Wanda W. Harvey (Gary), Constance W. B. Washington, one son, Wayne A. Williams, one step-daughter, Cassandra L. Edwards; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; siblings, Joseph B. Chambers Jr. (Dorothy), Evelyn C. Ross, Ollie Chambers, Maria W. Ferris, Michael Williams, John Williams (Jamie) and Elisa Williams; sister-in-law, Thelma Amy; and numerous devoted nieces, nephews, family members and friends.
Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Family Visitation and Reflections will be held Tuesday, March 26, from 6 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at Scott's Funeral Home Chapel.
The funeral will be held at Sharon Baptist Church, 500 E. Laburnum Avenue, on Wednesday, March 27 at 11 a.m. Rev. Dr. Paul A. Coles officiating. Interment Riverview Cemetery, 1401 South Randolph Street, Richmond, VA 23220. The service will be live stream at Sharon Baptist Church Facebook.
I humbly offer my humble sincere condolences to his wife and family. My name is Anthony Rickelle Ford, and my Mother (Mardge Ruth Cook) attended Armstrong High School in 1945-1947 (unfortunately she didn't graduate because she became pregnant, and eventually got married in 1948). I believe that my Mother knew Mr Willie Williams III.At least I would like to believe. My Mother shared with me that she played basketball while at Armstrong. I attended this same School when it became Benjamin A Graves Junior High School. I would go on to attend Maggie L Walker High School where I played basketball as well.I had recently seen Mr Willie Williams III obituary in the Richmond Free Press (March 21-23 edition). I was really impressed with his humble accomplishments. Several things stood out as I was reading his article. He was the 1947 class president of his graduating class.He enlisted in the United States Navy when president Harry S Truman was in office. My Mother was kinda fond of president Harry S Truman. She often mentioned his name a lot (that's I remember it). Again I will continue to keep your family in pray.
Extending heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family and fraternal members of Iota Sigma Chapter in the loss of Brother Willie Williams III. Rest in peace. Jacqueline M. Coley
Katrina, Wanda, Wayne and Constance may the grace and mercy of God our Father comfort and keep you now and forever. Wayne Salter, Columbia, MD
To Jean, May the love that surrounds you be a source of comfort in this time of sorrow. Mylove and heartfelt thoughts are with you. Muriel Burrell
Condolences and prayers of light and love to my soror, my Link sister Jean and her family.
Gwen Whiting
Bill you were like an uncle to us growing up in that your and daddy (Jeff) were only 10 years apart in age. You cared for us and we relished sharing time with you. If Jeff were here he would share the same thing. We love you and know that God is holding you in the palm of his hand. With continued loved n caring your first cousins, Boyce Courtney Williams-Williams, Beryl Francella Willims Spain and Frank JEFFERSON wILLIMS jR. (DECEASED) AND ALL OF THE CHILDREN.
Sending love, blessings, prayers of comfort and thanks to the Williams family. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to be in the company of PM WILLIE WILLIAMS a few occasions and to know his history and vision, I am honored to be able to call him a brother. Thank you for your dedication PAST, thank you for your contribution. Travel light always!!!! Bro. Justin Young.
Willie Williams lll was my father's oldest brother and my uncle. I remember him as being a kind uncle as a kid growing up. I pray that his soul is at rest with the Lord. Uncle Bill you left a beautiful legacy with your children, grandchildren and great children. May your memory live on ❤️
Our sympathy is expressed to Mrs. Jean Williams and family. Deacon Willie will always be remembered for his kind spirit warm smile. May God give you comfort and peace during this time. We are here for you.
Peace,blessings,& love, Carolyn Washington and Sabrina Montague
Willie was President of my graduating class at Armstrong High School in 1947. He served his nation well in the U.S. Navy and was an active member of the Military Retirees Club. As a businessman, he made his facilities available for political organizations and personally participated in official capacities. I always considered him to be my friend and I extend sincerest condolences to Jean and family. L. Douglas Wilder
Sending Condolence to you and your family, will keep in prayer. Sharing in the sadness of losing someone you loved so much. Love to you Lolita S Moses and family
NOW WILLIE YOUR DECEMBER'S WILL BE AS PLEASANT AS MAY! Learmon Moore
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