Dave

In Loving Memory of

David "Dave" Williams

August 21, 1950

On August 21, 1950, a light entered the world in Thomas County, Georgia, when David "Dave" Williams was born to Rutha Mae and Joseph Williams, Sr. That light shone brightly for decades, warming everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Dave carried many titles close to his heart father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend and he wore each one with honor. A proud graduate of Brooks County High School, Class of 1971, he built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. For more than 30 years, Dave gave his hands and his heart to Balfour Lumber Company, working as a stacker operator until his retirement in 2012. But it was after the workday ended that his true joys unfolded: gathering with family, taking peaceful walks in the park, and cheering loudly for the Brooks County Trojans Football team on Friday nights. More than anything, Dave found purpose in helping others, a kindness so woven into who he was that it became the truest measure of his life.

Later in life, Dave found a spiritual home at New Jersey Missionary Baptist Church in Pidcock, Georgia, where his faith continued to grow and deepen.

He was preceded in death by his son, Mondricas Hill; his mother, Rutha Mae Smith Williams; his father, Joseph Williams, Sr.; his brothers, Joseph Williams, Jr., Willie James Williams, and A.D. Williams; and sisters-in-law, Marie Williams and Mary Lee Williams. We find comfort in knowing he is reunited with them now.

Dave leaves behind a legacy carried forward by those who loved him most: his son, Terrance Akery; his daughters, Brakeira Linton and Paris (David) Jenkins; his cherished grandchildren, Shy'Lexia Hill, Chandrica Hill, Devan Odom, Za'Madhia Linton, Ah'mya Williams, Khalia Jenkins, A'Kalia Jenkins, London Jenkins, and Katelyn Jenkins; his great-granddaughter, Lai'anni Jenkins; his brothers, Arthur Williams, Levy (Jeannie) Williams, Sr., Thomas (Polly) Williams, Sr., Tarence (Mae) Thomas, Sr., and Anthony (Patricia) Thomas; his sisters, Clara (Joe) Adams, Sarah Williams, Brenda (Israel) Henry, and Dorothy (Elvis) Lane; his aunt, Eula Smith; his goddaughters, Veronica Williams and Erika Lane; his godsons, James Lamar Mitchell, Jamari Mitchell, and Robert Dennard; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends whose lives he touched along the way.

Though our hearts are heavy, we hold tightly to the memories Dave leaves behind his generous spirit, his easy laughter, and his unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand. He will be deeply missed, but never, ever forgotten.