Robert L. Williams

“Together Again”

L

oving

Tribute

God saw you getting tired The cure was not to be He wrapped you in His loving Arms

whispered “Come to Me” You suffered much in silence Your spirit did not bend You faced your pain with courage Until the very end You tried so hard to stay with us Your fight was not in vain God took you to His loving Home

The family of Robert L. Williams would like to express our sincerest appreciation to everyone for the many words of encouragement, calls of concern, prayers, hugs, visits, and gifts during the convalescing period of our beloved Pops. Words cannot properly convey how much your support has meant to us during this difficult time. His grace is sufficient, His strength is made perfect in weakness. May the Lord continue to bless each one of you and forever keep you in his tender care. Special thanks to Methodist Hospice Alliance, the Veteran Administration Palliative Care staff, Allen Morgan Rehabilitation staff and New Life of Memphis Church family.

~Active

Forest Hill Irene Road

Life’s Reflections

Robert L. Williams was an only child born January 11, 1935, to Morris Williams and Marie Blakely in Memphis, TN. He attended Hamilton High School and later joined the United States Army. Robert received an Honorable Discharge upon completion of his tour of duty. He relocated to Buffalo, New York, where he had many business opportunity. Several years later, he moved back to Memphis, TN, and married the late Pearl Dodson, and together they shared three sons and one daughter. He attempted to become an entrepreneur, but he deemed the heart of the South made pursuing a business difficult for a black man during his Era. He found employment as a factory worker, where he worked in numerous factory positions. He later gained employment with Nisco Steel, where he worked until he retired.

Robert and Bernice grew up in the South Memphis area. They were friends who attended Hamilton High School; they loved parties and going to the movies. They shared the same family culture, which included food, fun, and fellowship.

After years of pursuing their own desires and dreams, Robert and Bernice reunited during Hamilton High School’s 40th-year class reunion. They were married on June 21, 1986. The union lasted for 35 years.

Robert was an excellent caregiver for both his mother and stepfather (Mr. Will). He assisted them with their daily living. He enjoyed growing a vegetable and fruit garden with Mr. Will.

Robert gave his life to Christ at an early age. He attended Cane Creek Baptist Church, Mt. Joyner Missionary Baptist Church and Grace Christian Fellowship. He joined New Life of Memphis in 2011, where he was a member until his death.

Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Bernice Williams, daughter Nina Fitzgerald and son-in-law Anthony Gibson.

He leaves to cherish his memories; Demetrius (Sherri) Fitzgerald, Tony (Gloria) Williams, Dennis Dodson, Alisa Gibson, Gina Holman, Levita (Antonio) Jones, Stephen (Paula) Holman, Stephanie (Thomas) Morrow, and adopted daughter Brenda Beck and a special caregiver Debra Sharp. He leaves a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, and friends.

Order of Celebration

Prelude

Processional........................................................................................Family

Scripture Reading: Old Testament.................................................Minister Stanley Beaty New Testament................................................Minister Carol Collins

Prayer......................................................................................Paula Holman

Musical Selection.........................................................New Life of Memphis

Expressions of Love

(Respectfully, Three Minutes Please)

Demetrius Fitzgerald - Son

Dennis Murphy - Cousins

Levita Jones - Daughter

Darius Jones - Grandson

Courtney Gibson - Grandson

Musical Selection.........................................................New Life of Memphis

Words of Comfort.................................................................Pastor Joe Davis

Reading of Obituary

Acknowledgements.........................................Brittani Porter & Alisa Gibson

Musical Selection.........................................................New Life of Memphis

Eulogy....................................................................Bishop Kevin B. Willis, Sr. Recessional

When tomorrow starts without me, and I’m not here to see, if the sun should rise and find your eyes, filled with tears for me. I wish so much you wouldn’t cry, the way you did today, while thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say I know how much you love me, as much as I love you, and each time you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too When tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.