Patriarch, Herbert Williams, Sr., made his transition on August 4, 2017. He was born on February 14, 1934 to Lemuel and Annie (Ezell) Williams in St. Louis MO.
He is survived by his wife and caretaker Patricia (Bruce) Williams. He was preceded in death by his ten siblings: Leroy Williams, Esther (Williams) Joplin, Lemuel Williams, Mabel Williams, Evelyn (Jones) Smith, Arthur Jones, Willie Jones, Tyrone Jones, Ronald Earl Jones, Jr., and Deborah (Jones) Johnson.
Herbert was a devoted father and survived by his children: Cynthia (Williams) Flemmonds, mother of: Lamont Williams, Kevin Williams, RaShonya Hayes, Niela Williams; Karen (Calvin) Pitts, mother of Wynter Suarez, Anissa Phillips, Stephen Pitts;
Vivian (Williams) Jones, mother of Tavares Jones, Carl Jones, Antonio Jones; Michael (Lisa) Keeton, father of Natalie Keeton, Michael Keeton, Jr.; Herbert (Vanessa) Williams, Jr., father of Alaina Sawyer and Justin Tiggs; Kim Williams, mother of Alana Williams and Aaron Williams; and Avis Williams, his youngest. He was preceded in death by a son Arthur D. Williams. He has 3 step children, Diane (Sam) Jackson, Pierre Cousar and Pamela (Lafayette) Wright.
At the age of 31, Herbert single-handedly raised six of his children after the loss of his 1st wife, Kathleen (Carr) Williams.
Herbert worked for 21 years at the Greiss Pleger Tannery and retired from the Waukegan Post Office in 1997 after 24 years. He was well known on the "Southside" of Waukegan as the "Mailman" in the 80's and 90's.
He was known for imparting wisdom, his sarcastic wit, his teachings of self-sufficiency versus government assistance. He encouraged reading, education, helping others and exercising your political right to vote.
He leaves a legacy of 17 grandchildren, 35 great grandchildren, 3 great, great grandchildren a host of nephews and nieces and long term friends. We share a special acknowledgement to Ricky Nance and Jason Smith, whose own testament was of how though not related to him, had a positive influence in shaping their lives.
Herbert has completed his life's assignment with a job well done. He will be forever missed.
Visitation Details
Friday, August 11th, 2017 1:00pm - 4:00pm, Warren Funeral Home
Service Details
Friday, August 11th, 2017 4:00pm, Warren Funeral Home