Horace Williams

Horace Williams, 98, of Little Rock departed this life Saturday, February 5, 2011. Deacon Williams was born in Sicily Island, Louisiana on June 4, 1912 to the late Ned and Odie L. (Smith) Williams. Horace was the second oldest child born to this union (Viola, Herbert and O'Neal). They all preceded him in death. He is preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Rowena Williams. Although, they didn't share the same faith, he was very supportive of his wife's religion. To this union thirteen (13) children were born. Six (6) children of which also preceded him in death (Winston, Curtistene, James, Betty, Clara and Robert). In 1944, Deacon Williams moved his family to Little Rock. He began to work at Missouri Pacific Railroad and later, Continental Trailway Bus Company until he retired in 1972 after 35 years of service. During his employment, he and his family traveled throughout the country visiting family and friends, which he thoroughly enjoyed. For over 40 years, he was a beloved employee as well as a "family member" to the Dickinson and Butler families. In 1924, he joined New Salem Baptist Church in Sicily Island under the Pastorate of Rev. J.C. Clayborn. Upon arrival in Little Rock, he united with the Arch Street Baptist Church under Pastorate of the late Peter J. Sears. He later united with the Mt. Zion Baptist Church under the Pastorate of the late Rev. Fred T. Guy. He enjoyed serving as a fundraiser for Arkansas Baptist College promoting the expansion of its campus. He loved his family, his church, good food, had a zest for life and always praised "God's Green Earth." He loved reading and discussing the Bible. Nobody was a stranger to him, he loved meeting people, and his grandchildren were always a delight for him. He was known as someone who loved to laugh and always had a good joke to share. He leaves to mourn his passing: three sons, Charles (Brenda) Williams, Cincinnati, Ohio, Byron Williams, Denver, Colorado, Kenneth Williams, of Dayton, Ohio; four daughters, Mamie (Alfred) Hunter, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Janice Bailey, San Diego, California, Patsy Ebah, Little Rock, Arkansas and Bonnie (Bob) Kunde of Aurora, Colorado; nephew, Curtis Turner, Pueblo, Colorado; niece, Geraldine Smash, Alexandria, Louisiana and a host of other nieces and nephews. He also leaves to cherish his memories: 27 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. He will be missed greatly by many other relatives and dear friends. The Williams Family graciously extends warmest thanks for your kindness and support. Family Hour, Friday, 6-8 p.m.; Ruebel Funeral Home, 6313 West Markham, Little Rock. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, 11 a.m., Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 906 South Cross Streets, Little Rock, Rev. Rickey L. Lawson, Sr., officiating. The Interment will be held at Haven of Rest Cemetery. Funeral Services entrusted to Hubble Funeral Home, 1213 East Washington Avenue, North Little Rock, Arkansas, 374-3134. "Caring for you professionally since 1900."