In Loving Memory
HON. WALTER WILLIAMS
June 13, 1939 - October 21, 2022
His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter the joy of your master.’
Matthew 25:21
A Life Well-lived
The Honorable Walter Williams (retired), 83, peacefully passed away at his Chicago home, Friday, October 21, 2022. Judge Williams, a 1962 Graduate of Jackson State University and a 1970 graduate of the University of Illinois Chicago Law School (formerly John Marshall Law School), served the legal and criminal justice community as a defense attorney and judge for 42 years combined. In the seven years leading up to his 2012 retirement, he was the Supervising Judge of the Traffic Section of the First Municipal District in the Circuit Court of Cook County.
A native of Yazoo City, MS, Williams was active in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s as a college student and young adult, often to the chagrin of law enforcement and government officials who sought to suppress the fundamental human rights of African Americans in the state of Mississippi.
For Judge Williams, the inspiration to fight segregation came from local leaders of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and organizers of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). He used his involvement as President of the Student Government Association at Jackson State to march, protest, boycott and spread awareness about the movement among all Mississippians, particularly college students.
One of Williams’ fondest memories was studying for the Jim Crow Literacy Test with his Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity brothers for the 1960 presidential election. Once President John F. Kennedy was elected, he was determined to never miss voting in any election, considering his right to vote was hard-earned through blood, sweat, and tears. Despite his efforts to mobilize students locally and beyond, Williams’ advocacy for civil rights cost him his college degree when the President of Jackson State, a public university, expelled him from the college.
Although he was disappointed in the decision surrounding his expulsion, he was not deterred from continuing to fight for civil rights, nor did he hold a grudge against his alma mater. A 1968 JET Magazine interview with journalist Alex Poinsett quotes Williams as saying, “I hold no resentment for I realize he [the President] did what he had to do to maintain his position.” In the same interview, he offered words of encouragement for those still in the battle. “I sincerely hope students will fight with vigor and determination.“
In 1963, Williams was selected in the military draft and began a tour of duty in the U.S. Army. Serving our country was important, but his spare time gave him the opportunity to research the American criminal justice system, familiarize himself with legal cases that shaped U.S history, and study for the LSAT on his own. His goal was simple: To pursue a legal career, advocate for the underserved, and give a hopeful voice to the community he loved. Thankfully, at that time, the completion of a bachelor’s degree was not required for admission into law school.
Once he became a lawyer, and subsequently a judge, his passion for diversity, equity, and fair representation remained evident through his membership in the National Bar Association, the Cook County Bar Association (where he served as a past-president), the Illinois Judicial Council (also serving as a past-president), and the Illinois Judges Association (past-chairman).
Williams earned several accolades and special awards from his various leadership positions and involvement in community organizations, but one of his proudest moments was in August 2011 when Jackson State University reversed its 1961 decision and awarded Williams his B.A. degree, retroactively to 1962. “I was very proud the day I walked down the aisle,” he said in a 2013 article in the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin.
Improving crime rates was important to Judge Williams, but mentoring young lawyers and judges was also integral to his life’s work. According to the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, Williams noted one of the favorite parts of his job was watching “the transition that many experience going from being a lawyer to a judge, while eventually developing and becoming fine jurists.”
Judge Williams called Chicago his home for nearly six decades, yet Mississippi always held a special place in his heart; particularly during football season when he could cheer on the Jackson State University Tigers. Retirement years for Judge Williams included meeting friends from the legal community for breakfast on Saturday mornings and creating treasured memories with his wife, Helen, and their three grandchildren.
Williams was a lifetime member of Beulah Land Missionary Baptist Church in Yazoo City, MS.
Survivors include wife, Helen Maxine Williams; daughter, Toni Williams Holloway; stepmother, Delia Williams; and grandchildren Christopher, Tyra, and Jada Holloway. Additionally, he leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends & colleagues to cherish his memory. Judge Williams was preceded in death by his parents, Eliza Mays, Walter Williams, Sr. and George & Mary Lee Knight.
necrologue, cont'd
"memories from the footprint of time"
My Dearest Walter, Words are inadequate for me to express any feelings, however, I promise you that I will continue to live in the footprint of time. Lovingly yours, Helen Maxine
Daddy, Our 50 years together brought a lot of love, laughter, and loyalty. From our appreciation of CNN and award shows, our fandom of LL Cool J and Missy Elliott, to our ultimate disdain for anything that showcased racism or unfairness, sharing my life with you has been a joy. You taught me the importance of making time for the people you love, the urgency in treating others better than I’d like to be treated, and the knowledge of how to advocate for those who are unable to advocate for themselves. Most importantly, you taught me to never forget that every day, we are Mississippians at heart. Even when we couldn’t agree on my love for social media, you supported my career in writing, journalism, and marketing. Spending the final three weeks of your life as your spokesperson taught me more about you than I could have ever imagined, and for that, I am ever so grateful. While it seems like this is goodbye, I know, it’s actually see you later.
Love, Toni the Tiger
Walter Jr. was my only child, a gift sent to me from GOD. He was very special to me and always will be. He found the Love of his life Maxine, that made me very happy. They both have always been loving, kind and so considerate to me. From their union, I received a beautiful loving granddaughter Toni and from her came beautiful great grandchildren, my life has truly been made whole. They all affectionately call me Little Mama; I will always Love and hold Walter Jr. dear to my heart and cherish Maxine, Toni and the children (young adults now). I am so proud of all of Walter Jr's accomplishments in life and will always miss hearing his voice on the other end of the phone. I Thank God for the wonderful gift he has given to me in this life.
Love Always, Little Mama
It has been said that life’s greatest teachers teach without teaching and lead without leading. Without saying a word my grandfather did just that. He showed me what it meant to be an upstanding man without ever having to utter a sentence and for that I am forever grateful of the things He taught me along the way.
Christopher Holloway, Jr. (CJ)I’m honored to that I was able to fill his heart with joy and laughter during our time together; we laughed, we cried and we argued. Though I am sad I’m overwhelmed with love and gratitude for all he was. I know that kind of love isn’t going anywhere. Forever in my heart My grandfather, My hero.
Tyra HollowayPapaw, You never failed to remind me that I come from greatness and to excel at everything I do. While reminding me that I am beautiful and worthy of love. You were a great man and I will always aspire to change the world just like you did! I love you more than life itself! ‘Til we meet again…
Jada Holloway
"drum major for justice"
Your presence will be forever missed in our family and at our get togethers. You were my last living Uncle. Your words of wisdom and encouragement were always appreciated. We both enjoyed the TV series Walker, Texas Ranger. And, if you and I were both in Mississippi on a Saturday night, we sat down together to enjoy watching Chuck Norris. I'll never forget how persistent you were about driving the speed limit and if you were following me, you would remind me that I'd have to slow down. You weren't just my uncle, but my fraternity brother "06" too. Stefann, Your Nephew and frat of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
To my uncle who never complained about his pain but when I called he always had a smile and a laugh on his face. He always said, “I’m doing fine for a country boy.” He is resting in country heaven now. Love you so much, D.D.
Uncle Walter,
My fondest memories of Uncle Walter was the quiet demeanor shown in his presence. The strict law and order code he lived by would only be overshadowed by his love for being a native of Yazoo MS and his beloved Jackson State Tigers. His memories will forever remain in our hearts.
Joe DavisYou faced many challenges in this life, but you overcame those barriers and made your own path. You showed us no matter what challenges we are faced with; nothing can prevent us from obtaining our goals if we truly want it. Your passing may end your time on earth, but it cannot end your time in our minds and hearts. On a sidenote, Toni and I will take up the tradition of the Alcorn and JSU bet. This is not goodbye but see you on the other side.
Your Nephew, Ken
Uncle Walter,
Thanks for being the great man you were! You showed us that anything is possible for Mississippi boy as long as you put in the hard work & stay on course.
Your Nephew, Christopher D. Bolin
My Dear Uncle Walter:
You were a man of such great esteem and stature. Your voice was commanding and comforting at the same time. I guess you were a little like E.F. Hutton, when you spoke - we listened. Even though I was not your biological niece, you welcomed me into the family. I will always remember your voice, smile and the twinkle in your eye when you smiled; especially when you were looking at Aunt Maxine and Toni. Uncle Water, you will always be my Drum Major of Justice because you gave a voice for those who didn't have one.
Love, Robin
"a country boy from yazoo city"
When I think of Cousin Walter, I remember that he was more like an Uncle than a cousin. I think of his courage, strength, intelligence, and trail-blazing spirit as a student at Jackson State College who also helped students at Tougaloo. His example as an adult in his role as Judge and community leader makes me grateful for your life, your legacy and your love. Now it is time to take your rest.
Rhea Williams-BishopIn the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson: “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” Thank you Sonny, for living your life so well.
Anita Carthen
I am a history buff and I liked talking to Cousin Sonny about his youth and the Civil Rights Movement, but another thing was seeing him washing dishes & taking out the garbage for his mom, my auntie Sister (Mary Lee Knight). Forever Love Sonny, Donald Jones
One of my favorite Walter stories is about his first case. He was assigned to defend a man accused of robbing a pizza delivery man. At the trial, the victim was asked to identify the robber, and he pointed to someone in the audience!! It turned out that there were two robbers, two brothers and the other brother had come to observe the trial - and got recognized!! Walter thought it was just his luck on his first case to start off with one client and, before the day was done, have two.
Love, Bob Harrison
Walter and I have been friends for 68 years and he was my Best Man in my wedding. I shall never forget these words "Johnson, I am going to get you to that damn wedding on time". That he did!
Regards, Henry G. Johnson
The love we shared with Uncle Walter will forever be embedded in our lives forever as we continue our earthly journey. We will continue to emulate his communicative skills, his kindness, and his enduring heart for humanity.
Earl and Virginia Aldridge
Judge Walter Williams was fond of saying that he was just a country boy from Yazoo City, Mississippi. However, we all know that he was much more than that. He was a pioneer, a leader, a counselor and confidant. In addition to being a beloved husband and father, he was a giant among men. For me, Walter was an advisor, cheerleader and true friend. He will be sorely missed.
Judge Thaddeus L. Wilson
"advisor, cheerleader & True friend"
I met Walter at a Cook County Bar Meeting in the 80’s. Working at a Black Firm it was required that you attend and join the CCBA. As a young lawyer I argued preliminary hearings before him at 51st & Wentworth, winning some and losing some. When I came to the bench, he was my Supervising Judge in the Traffic Division. Mostly he was my mentor, breakfast host, Mississippi connection and friend. I will miss his counsel, his laugh, his signifying and his making the men at the table pay the bill. Hon. Freddrenna M. Lyle
To Our Good Friend & Brother Walter, We Love you and always will! Rest easy and in God’s arms. We will see you again one day! Love, Demetrius & Juanita Armstrong
Dear Uncle Walter, Intelligent, Strong, Kind & Gentle to name a few. These words come to mind when I think of you. Blessed memories of you will forever linger on and live on in my mind and heart. “Here comes the Judge, one more time!”
Love and Honor to You, Your Niece, Rev. Dr. Denita Armstrong Shaffer
I love you Uncle Walter! Thank you for your life and your love!
Love, Neil Armstrong
As a little girl and before Toni was born, I spent quite a bit of time with Cousins Maxine and Walter. Those special times will be cherished forever. Rest in peace, Cousin Walter.
Teresa Alexander
Before joining the bench I was honored to be a part of the Saturday morning breakfast club. Each Saturday we would sit for hours and we knew about Walter’s Saturday morning chores including Jewels and often picking up food for his lovely wife Maxine. We often heard about Toni and the kids. The running joke, after I was sworn in was, you are lucky not to have Walter as your supervisor, he makes sure judges are always on time, properly attired and professional on the bench. He would laugh with that big smile, but I thought, what is wrong with that? It sounded like good advice to me. He served as a great mentor, advisor and friend and I will miss him dearly. Judge Andrea Buford
When I became a judge, I asked Walter if he had any advice or words of wisdom to share for a new member of the judiciary. His response? “Show up and do your job!”
Celestia Mays
To Maxine, Toni and Family, I am honored to have known your husband and father. He was a blessing in my life from my childhood and adulthood. We shared some wonderful family memories on the campus Jackson State, Yazoo City and Chicago. He will always hold a special place in my heart and life. He will be missed by many. May he rest in peace.
LaNora Emziah
first met Walt Williams when he returned to the John Marshall Law School after his service in the military. He was walking down a corridor there, wearing a fancy new hat and had a long pipe in his mouth and we stopped to introduce ourselves.We were two of a very small number of African American students at the school and became fast friends who participated in each other's lives for decades.We supported each other's many political efforts down through the decades and our entire families' relationships blossomed over the years as well. No man on this earth ever had a better friend. Sincerely, Tim Evans Chief Judge, Circuit Court of Cook County
Judge Walter Williams was a friend who was more like a relative to the Herbert A Scott, Sr., family. He was thought of as a big brother to my siblings and me. From as far back as his teenage years, H. A. Scott, Sr., served as Walter's mentor, which forged an unbreakable bond that lasted through the years.
Walter was well-known and highly respected in the Yazoo City community for his courage, character, intellect, wit, affable personality, and great sense of humor. Needless to say, Judge Walter Williams will be sorely missed by all Yazooians who were so privileged to make his acquaintance. May he rest in peace. Brenda Scott Smith
"remarkable courage, character & wit"
"sonny, sir walter, may lee's boy"
Your Honor, how do we define a 52-year entanglement succinctly? Perhaps the lunches and after-work cocktails at the Randolph Inn, the Saturday morning breakfasts in a succession of restaurants from Isola’s; thru Mamma Wades, and the meetings and conventions of the National Bar Association, Cook County Bar Association, the Illinois Judicial Council and Foundation, and remember Las Vegas. By happenstance, our respective practice groups ended up in the same office building on the same floor, and our associates often scampered to each other’s office for second opinions. Attorney Leo Holt often sounded the alarm for all of us to scurry to the courthouse to defend civil rights protestors. You ascended to the judiciary in furtherance of your dedication to improving our legal system for all. Well done, Walter, well done.
Carl McCormick
You were affectionately known as “Sonny” to our family. As a child I remember the delight my siblings and I had when my parents said we were on our way to Chicago to either visit you at your home or see you and Aunt Maxine at Aunt Gert and Uncle Bose’s house.
There were times during our visits that I remember snow piling up outside and my parents continued to eat, laugh and talk even though we had to travel back to Gary.
You have a special place in our hearts. Your commanding voice was infectious, your kind heart and encouraging words shaped the way my siblings and I navigated our lives. My brother David (Peter) had the confidence to complete law school because of your excellent example. My sister Regina and I pursued advance degrees as a direct result of your accomplishments.
You were loved and respected by our family. We thank you for loving us and being such a great support throughout our lives. Lovingly, Rhonda Kaye , Regina, Kimberlen
Dear Walter,
Thank you for our more than sixty years of friendship. I appreciate you for your kindness. No matter what status you attained during your stellar career in life, you never forgot your friends, your past or your humble beginnings in Yazoo City MS.
Love you “Black Boy” and I’ll see you later. Sincerely, Wilma Woods Wills “Black Girl”
"Well Done Walter, Well Done"
Cherishing memories of Walter!
I'm remembering his experiences at Jackson State, recalling the wonderful visits with my mom and me in Yazoo City, valuing the telephone calls through the years and lauding his accomplishments.
Lois Miller Hawthorne
“Sir Walter” is what I ofttimes called him because he was the absolute best version of the Southern Gentleman. Moreover, he was MayLee’s boy from Yazoo City who treasured family and community and worked to protect both. I am blessed that he was my friend.
Arnette Hubbard
When I think of Walter, I think of him as my friend for over 30 years---from court to Saturday breakfast to phone conversations. He had a great sense of humor and he was generous. I feel blessed to have known him and I will honor his legacy and remember him always."
Delores E. RobinsonI remember Walter as a caring member of our neighborhood and church. He could sing and was a member of our church choir. He was also a very articulate speaker and a big brother to all of us in the neighborhood and church, Beulah Land Baptist Church.
Melzenia Delaware
LOOK FOR ME IN RAINBOWS
Time for me to go now, I won’t say goodbye;
Look for me in rainbows, way up in the sky.
In the morning sunrise when all the world is new, Just look for me and love me, as you know I loved you.
Time for me to leave you, I won’t say goodbye; Look for me in rainbows, high up in the sky.
In the evening sunset, when all the world is through, Just look for me and love me, and I’ll be close to you.
It won’t be forever, the day will come and then My loving arms will hold you, when we meet again.
Time for us to part now, we won’t say goodbye;
Look for me in rainbows, shining in the sky. Every waking moment, and all your whole life through Just look for me and love me, as you know I loved you.
Just wish me to be near you, And I’ll be there with you.
Music and lyrics: Conn Bernard (1990). Vicki BrownExpressions of Appreciation
We’d like to give special thanks to the medical teams at The University of Chicago Hospitals, Advocate Hospice, and @Home Health Agency. While this journey was difficult, we are grateful to you for your expertise and loving kindness in the final days of Walter’s life on earth.
To Our Extended Family and Friends,
Your love and care during this time will be an eternal reminder that God through Walter touched more lives than we will ever know Your calls encouraged our hearts, your prayers uplifted our souls, and your cards, flowers and donations enhanced our memories We are grateful that you are a part of our lives Continue to keep us in prayer and may God forever bless you
Love, Maxine, Toni, CJ, Tyra, and Jada
In lieu of flowers, the Williams family encourages you to send a donation to the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and/or the National Museum for African American History & Culture.
Interment of Ashes Yazoo City, MS & Carthage, MS
Cremation Entrusted To Cremation Society of Illinois 344 E 55th St Chicago, IL 60615 cremation society.com